Mamata inaugurates 'Bhorer Alo' tourism hub at Gajoldoba
Darjeeling: "Bhorer Alo" in Jalpaiguri saw the light of day with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee inaugurating the integrated development project on Wednesday which is billed to emerge as a major tourist attraction of this region.
"I had seen this location at Gajoldoba while returning from Islampur in 2011. I was mesmerised by the beauty of the place with the river and the jungle. I had clicked photographs and later discussed the tourism potential of this place with state Finance minister Amit Mitra. This is how the project 'Bhorer Alo' was born," stated the Chief Minister.
Spread across a sprawling 210 acres of land, the project located at Gajoldoba around 20 km from Siliguri will include a bird sanctuary "Pakhibitan;" a jungle safari; sunset point; an orchid park; amphitheater; camping facility; jungle trek route; adventure cycling and boating facilities.
It will also have a nine-hole golf course, star hotels along with tourist cottages. The Chief Minister emphasised on the need for strict and efficient administration of the project. She announced the bifurcation of the Jalpaiguri Sadar Sub-Division and to create a new Sub-Division comprising Gajoldoba area that will be administered by a Sub-Divisional Officer.
"The project will bring in investors and business. From the first day, we have to ensure that there is no land encroachment. Whosoever indulges in any such illegal activity will not be spared. CCTVs will have to be set up and all activities have to be recorded," said the Chief Minister in a strong message.
She also maintained that a police station will be set up in the project area and that from day one there will be strict policing.
Banerjee also requested investors accompanying her to spread the word of an immense business potential of the project. "We have invested Rs 320 crore in this," she said. The Chief Minister stated that the project would help develop the surrounding areas along with generating employment and creating a livelihood for many.
"The locals need to cooperate. They have to understand that if the project grows, they will also grow along with it. There will be employment generation as well and the locals will get jobs and benefits," stated Banerjee.
A Biswa Bangla store will come up at Gajoldoba along with Banglar Haat. "2 acres of land will be given for Banglar Haat where local artisans will display and sell their products. Local artists will also perform daily at the Banglar Haat," stated the Chief Minister. Stressing on connectivity, she stated that a new flyover and a road is being constructed to improve connectivity. "We will build a helipad too for better air connectivity," remarked Banerjee.
The Chief Minister also handed over life jackets to local boatmen and cycles to residents of neighbouring Saraswatipur Tea Estate. "25 boatmen will be given modern boats under the Jolodhara scheme," stated Banerjee. The Chief Minister will be halting at "Bhorer Alo" for the night.
