West Bengal Announces Comprehensive Urban Modernization Initiative for 25 Cities
In a significant move to enhance urban infrastructure, West Bengal's Minister of State for Finance, Chandrima Bhattacharya, presented an ambitious plan in the interim Budget on Thursday. The government has committed to modernizing at least 25 towns and cities across the state, transforming them into hubs that are business-friendly, environment-friendly, and employment-friendly.
Holistic Development for Modern Urban Living
Presenting the interim Budget in the Assembly, Bhattacharya emphasized that the initiative will focus on holistic development. The goal is to equip these cities with all amenities of modern life and robust digital infrastructure, making them attractive for investment and sustainable living. "We aim to create modern cities that not only foster economic growth but also prioritize environmental sustainability and job creation," she stated.
List of Cities Slated for Modernization
The cities identified for this modernization push include a diverse range of urban centers from various regions of West Bengal. The initial list comprises:
- Howrah
- Diamond Harbour
- Bardhaman
- Durgapur
- Bolpur
- Krishnanagar
- Barasat
- Raiganj
- Siliguri
- Baharampur
- Malda
- Kalyani
- Srirampur
- Andal
- Bankura
- Purulia
- Digha
- Medinipur
- Jhargram
- NKDA (New Town Kolkata Development) area
- Gangarampur
- Jalpaiguri
- Cooch Behar
- Alipurduar
- Darjeeling
This selection spans from Darjeeling in the north to Diamond Harbour in the south, highlighting a statewide approach to urban renewal.
Committee to Ensure Smooth Implementation
To ensure the project proceeds without disrupting existing residents, the government will form a dedicated committee. This body will conduct surveys and explore strategies to minimize adverse impacts on current inhabitants. Bhattacharya announced that the committee is expected to submit its report by the end of this year, paving the way for phased implementation.
Driving Investment and Economic Growth
The modernization effort is aligned with West Bengal's emergence as a key investment destination. The minister highlighted the state's growing prominence in sectors such as industry, manufacturing, tourism, IT and Data Centres, and logistic hubs. West Bengal has become a major hub in steel, cement, railway coach, metro coach, and wagon production, she noted, underscoring the need for upgraded urban infrastructure to support this economic momentum.
Additionally, regions like Siliguri, Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and the Dooars in North Bengal are experiencing rapid development in MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) activities. Their scenic beauty and improving connectivity are attracting high-end conferences and corporate retreats, further justifying the modernization push.
Budget Allocation and Additional Initiatives
The interim Budget has allocated Rs 13,595.55 crore to the Urban and Municipal Affairs Department to support this and other urban development projects. In a related move, Bhattacharya announced the establishment of five new MSE Industrial Parks across the state:
- Two in Jalpaiguri district
- One in Birbhum district
- One in Bankura district
- One in Murshidabad district
Furthermore, plans are underway to set up a state-of-the-art Global Trade Centre through joint collaboration, enhancing international trade opportunities.
Promoting Sports and Culture
Beyond economic development, the budget includes initiatives to boost sports and culture. A "Sports City" will be established in Dumurjala, Howrah, to promote games and sports across the state. Simultaneously, a "Cultural City" will be developed in Baruipur, near Kolkata, centered around the existing "Tele Academy" to foster artistic and cultural activities.
This comprehensive urban modernization plan reflects West Bengal's strategic vision to build sustainable, inclusive, and technologically advanced cities, positioning the state for future growth and prosperity.
