BETTIAH, June 17 -- Meena Bazaar, the largest and oldest traditional commercial hub in Bettiah of West Champaran district in Bihar was all set for a makeover, with Bettiah Municipal Corporation approving Rs.30 lakh for four schemes covering the facelift, officials said. The civic body plans to improve basic amenities and infrastructure. Mayor Garima Devi Sikaria said, "The projects include restoration of two age-old wells, construction of two urinals, repair of a ramshackled shed and fortification of drainage network." Two wells were also added to the area for visitors, which reflects the emphasis on public convenience at that time. However, known as the standing living legacy of Bettiah Raj and its rulers, Meena Bazaar continues to be plagued by hardships. "Just one spell of rain and it flicks open a can of worms. The area gets waterlogged and turns into an island," said Vishu Arya, a jewellery shop owner. "Wells and urinals are well on paper. Nothing tangible has been done for the comfort of visitors." With the approval of the schemes, hope for the revival of the market's glory has surfaced. The work includes constructing a drainage system for Rs.13.16 lakh. Besides, officials have planned restoration work for Rs.16.83 lakh. A dilapidated shed at Meetha Hatta in Meena Bazaar will be restored along with a well in the Anaj Hatta area of Chhota Ramna. In addition, a public urinal will be constructed at Machhli Hatta while the one on Kaveri Hotel Road will be reconstructed. Dating back roughly 325 years, the densely populated market spread across roughly five acres was established by Maharaja Dhiraj Singh (1694-1715) to create a one-stop shopping destination. It currently houses around 2,000 shopkeepers. "The basic concept behind setting up of Meena Bazaar by Maharaja Dhiraj Singh was to facilitate everything from namak (salt) to kafan (shroud) under a single marketplace," said Pramod Vyas, Bettiah Raj Karmchaari Sangh president. Officials said the market accounted for a significant share of revenue. "It is a key contributor to the Rs.245 crore and Rs.184 crore tax collections during 2025-26 and 2024-25, respectively," said Dinesh Kumar, joint commissioner of state tax, Bettiah Circle....