Kolkata, October 9 (Daily Kiran) : Kolkata is gearing up for a significant urban transformation as the Durga Puja festival approaches. A high-level meeting held in the city brought together municipal corporations and development agencies to discuss an extensive roadmap for beautification, sanitation, and infrastructure improvements over the next two years.
The state aims to revamp its waste management system under the “Waste is Wealth” model, while also infusing historical sites with artistic and cultural elements to convey a new political and cultural message.
West Bengal Minister Agnimitra Paul expressed her enthusiasm, noting that such a gathering of officials is unprecedented. “Today, the Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari and the Chief Secretary attended, along with representatives from all urban local bodies and development agencies,” she said.
The meeting outlined clear directives for the upcoming festival, emphasizing the need for effective planning. Paul mentioned that the state has initiated 37 projects aimed for completion within two years. These include the construction of bus stands, public toilets, and arrangements for stray animals, as well as the rehabilitation of street vendors.
Addressing the issue of long-standing waste accumulation, Paul criticized the previous government’s negligence. “We plan to clear the waste by 2027, turning it into bio-gas and bio-manure, reflecting our commitment to the ‘waste is wealth’ philosophy,” she added.
In response to inquiries about specific projects, Paul highlighted the creation of a large “alpana” (traditional Bengali art) at Park Circus, a site with historical significance. She described how the area had previously been marred by unrest but will now host a vibrant celebration as the festival begins.
The beautification efforts extend to roadways, with artistic paintings being done from the Gariahat Bridge to Golpark and along Red Road. “We are working beautifully at various locations, ensuring that these projects are completed before the festival or Diwali,” Paul said, emphasizing the themes of love, unity, and brotherhood that the road paintings aim to promote.
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