Jalpaiguri City to get new entrance gates as part of beautification project

MP  |  13 Aug 2023  | Jalpaiguri: The Siliguri Jalpaiguri Development Authority (SJDA) has set its sights on enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the city by constructing two entrance gates at the main entry points to Jalpaiguri city. 

This initiative aims to combine beautification with the preservation of the city’s heritage. Additionally, plans are underway to renovate the Ushasri tourist lodge, a municipal establishment. 

An estimate has been formulated and forwarded to the Urban Development and Municipal Affairs department, seeking funds for these projects, as confirmed by municipal sources. The Ushasri Tourist lodge was erected by the Jalpaiguri Municipal Board in 1985, with the intention of accommodating visitors from outside Jalpaiguri, who attended various functions and social events. 

This three-storey building, located in Hakimpara, boasts 42 rooms and ample space for social gatherings. 

However, due to escalating maintenance costs over the years, the municipal board had opted to lease the property to a private company in 2008. Initially, an annual payment of Rs 1,78,000 was provided by the lessee to the municipality which was later increased to Rs 3,69,000. 

As it is in a dilapidated condition, thorough renovation is the need of the hour. Papia Pal, chairperson of Jalpaiguri municipality, remarked: “The renovation of the Ushasri tourist lodge is under consideration.” 

A Detailed Project Report (DPR) has been prepared by municipal engineers and submitted to higher authorities. Furthermore, with assistance sought from the North Bengal Development Department, the SJDA is expected to support the lodge’s renovation. 

“By renovating the Ushasri Bhawan, the municipality plans to generate income,” he added. Meanwhile, during an SJDA board meeting, the proposal for erecting two entrance gates at the city’s main entry points, Assam More and Paharpur More, received approval. 

An allocation of approximately Rs 1 crore has been proposed for the construction of both gates and is currently awaiting state approval. Sourav Chakraborty, chairman of SJDA, said: “Jalpaiguri town carries a rich heritage. 

We intend to collaborate with the municipality for the development of the city. Once the necessary approvals are secured, the project will commence.”

Courtesy & source- Millennium Post

https://www.millenniumpost.in/bengal/jalpaiguri-city-to-get-new-entrance-gates-as-part-of-beautification-project-529171