In a significant infrastructure boost for Howrah district, more than 3,50,000 residents across Bally, Belur, and Liluah are poised to experience a transformative improvement in their daily commute. The long-awaited reconstruction of approximately 76 roads in these areas is scheduled to commence imminently, with a substantial investment of around Rs 28 crore allocated for this crucial project.
Project Details and Timeline
The ambitious road redevelopment initiative falls under the West Bengal state government's flagship Pathashree project. According to official announcements from the Bally Municipality administration, the construction and reconstruction work is set to kick off from the first week of February, strategically timed ahead of the upcoming elections. This development marks a pivotal moment for local infrastructure, addressing years of neglect and deterioration.
Scope and Funding of the Road Works
The project encompasses an extensive 4.3 kilometers of road network that will undergo comprehensive redevelopment. Notably, the entire funding for this initiative is being provided by the state government, underscoring its commitment to enhancing urban connectivity and public welfare in the region.
The 76 roads selected for improvement have been categorized based on their specific requirements and usage patterns:
- 33 major roads will receive essential patchwork using bitumen to ensure smoother surfaces and enhanced durability.
- 40 smaller roads in residential and local areas will be constructed with concrete, promising long-term stability and reduced maintenance needs.
- Three roads located in bustling commercial zones will be built with paver blocks, designed to withstand heavy foot and vehicular traffic while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
Official Confirmation and Community Impact
Rana Chattopadhyay, who serves as both the Chief Administrator of Bally Municipality and the MLA of Bally, confirmed that work orders for the construction and reconstruction activities have already been formally issued. This administrative green light ensures that the project will proceed without unnecessary delays, bringing much-needed relief to the local populace.
For years, residents of Bally, Belur, and Liluah have vocally demanded repairs and substantial improvements to their road infrastructure. The existing roads have been plagued by crater-like potholes and severe surface damage, creating hazardous conditions for commuters, pedestrians, and motorists alike. The deplorable state of these thoroughfares has been directly linked to multiple accidents, raising serious safety concerns within the community.
Strategic Importance of the Area
The regions slated for road reconstruction are not merely residential enclaves but vibrant hubs of activity and development. The area boasts:
- Ten large housing complexes accommodating thousands of families.
- Several high-rise buildings that contribute to the urban skyline.
- Two prominent shopping malls that serve as commercial and social centers.
- Numerous educational institutions, including schools and an engineering college.
- The iconic Belur Math, a major spiritual and tourist destination that attracts visitors from across the country and beyond.
The comprehensive road overhaul is expected to significantly improve accessibility to these key locations, boost local economic activity, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents. By addressing long-standing infrastructure deficits, the Pathashree project represents a critical step toward sustainable urban development in Howrah, promising safer, more efficient, and more reliable transportation networks for generations to come.
