West Bengal Government to Build District-Level Shopping Malls, Announcing New Projects in Alipore

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, Kolkata, December 26, 2024 – In a significant end-of-year announcement, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee revealed plans to construct shopping malls in various districts across West Bengal. 

Addressing the media at a press conference held at Nabanna Sabhagriha on Thursday afternoon, Banerjee stated that the state government would allocate land to entrepreneurs for the establishment of these malls. The initiative aims to boost the local economy by fostering job creation and providing a platform for local artisans and self-help groups.

In a move to ensure inclusivity, the Chief Minister emphasized that each mall will feature two dedicated floors for members of local self-help groups and artisans, giving them a space to sell their goods. Banerjee expressed optimism that this project would strengthen the economic fabric at the grassroots level, providing a boost to district-level commerce.

Sharing an anecdote to highlight the importance of such development, Banerjee recalled a conversation with a young man from a district who had handed her a note expressing concern over the lack of shopping malls in the region. In response, the Chief Minister assured that the new malls would offer modern amenities similar to those in Kolkata, including cafeterias, restaurants, and cinema halls. She emphasized that the presence of modern cinema facilities in the districts would significantly increase the distribution and screening of Bengali films.

To kick-start the project, Banerjee announced the identification of land for the first mall, which will be built on the vacant plot opposite the Alipore Zoo in South 24 Parganas. Additionally, she disclosed plans for a direct sales center for leather goods, as well as a sales center dedicated to Bengali sarees, both of which will be constructed on land opposite the Alipore Museum.

This initiative marks a major step in the state government’s broader vision of decentralizing development and creating economic opportunities in the districts, with a focus on empowering local businesses and artisans. The Chief Minister’s announcement has been welcomed by various sectors, with many anticipating a significant positive impact on local economies and job creation in the coming years.