Govt to create green zones in city

Kolkata: The state Urban Development & Municipal Affairs department has decided to create 'Green Zones' in the areas from Kolkata airport to Chinar Park and from Parama Island to Nabanna via Maa flyover and AJC Bose Road flyover.

It has instructed the concerned urban local bodies to follow a series of guidelines for maintaining the zones.

The local bodies have been asked to ensure that no building material remains stacked or disposed by the roadside in this earmarked zone and special efforts should be undertaken for cleaning of garbage along the roadside in a periodic manner. Roads should be cleaned at least twice a day. There should be no display of hoardings or publicity material in the green zones without the consent of the competent authority and education and communication material that manifest the essence of the green zones should be displayed at some important locations.

The adjoining roads in this projected zone should be well maintained, made smooth and hump-free and sufficiently illuminated by roadside lighting system. "The state government has initiated a unique scheme, namely Green City Mission (GCM), which aims for sustainable and eco-friendly Green and Clean Cities and planned development of all 125 municipal cities and towns. The projects under GCM are being implemented in phases throughout the entire state to provide the citizens environment friendly services in a better way," a senior official of the Municipal Affairs department said.

The official added that the ULBs and developmental authorities have to maintain footpaths, service lanes, drains and medians to keep them in good condition and take steps towards beautification of the area. "Placement of roadside bins should be prioritised and CCTV surveillance system should be properly maintained," he added.

The notification by the department further mentions that Alipore Road, Red Road and some of its adjacent connecting stretches should be kept clean and beautiful, which will make the city more eco-friendly and attractive.

The state government has already notified the area surrounding the Swami Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan and the Dum Dum airport and some of its surrounding areas like Jessore Road and Biswa Bangla Sarani up to Parama Island as Green Zone and the cleanliness and decoration of the places have earned accolades.

The state government has urged all municipal corporations to identify certain areas under their jurisdiction where green zones can be carved out.