SM Krishna offers Rs1 crore for rebuilding Bangalore's Russel Mkt

External Affairs Minister, SM Krishna, on Monday offered to donate Rs 1 crore from his MP local development fund for rebuilding the 85-year-old fire-ravaged Heritage Russel Market in Bangalore.

"Russel Market is an iconic structure, which is a part of Bangalore. A decision must be taken to plan the development of this market," Krishna told reporters during his visit to the market.

Krishna said he has offered to donate Rs 1 crore from his MP local area development fund for rebuilding the market.

On February 25, a major fire broke out in the market in the wee hours, reducing more than 170 shops to ashes.

Built during British rule in 1927, the market housed shops that sold goods such as fruits, mutton, fish, vegetable and flowers.

Around 20 firefighters fought for over five hours to douse the fire, which police said could have been caused by electrical short circuit.