Soon, Tarakeshwar to be turned into tourist hotspot

Kolkata: The state government has started work for the development of Tarakeshwar, which is known for its religious importance, into a major tourist destination.

The Tarakeshwar Development Authority (TDA) has taken up the responsibility of the development of Tarakeshwar temple, its adjoining areas and renovation of Dudhpukur, a tank located north of the Shiva temple, which is believed to fulfill the prayers of those taking a dip in it.

"We have prepared a comprehensive plan for development of the total area under TDA. The Tarakeshwar temple and the waterbody at Dudhpukur will also be renovated," state Urban Development and Municipal Affairs minister Firhad Hakim said.

Hakim, who is also the chairman of TDA, paid a visit to Tarakeshwar on March 17 and interacted with engineers and officials of TDA, along with members of the temple committee.

It may be mentioned that as part of the development initiative, high marked lights are being fitted to illuminate the premises of the shrine. Decorative lights are being used to light up the road situated in and around the temple. "The parking area is being developed in accordance to international standards, with the use of paver blocks. The roads under TDA are being repaired with the use of mastic asphalt," Hakim said.

TDA is also implementing Banglar Bari Scheme to rehabilitate the dwellers of slums situated near the temple. The shops adjacent to the temple are being given a smart look. The state is spending Rs 10 crore for the total project.

"We are giving a special emphasis on renovation and curbing the pollution of Dudhpukur. We are procuring the technology that is being used in the waterbody at the Golden Temple of Amrtisar, to keep it clean and pollution free. The water in Dudhpukur will be oxidised in a manner, such that it sucks any sort of unwanted things dumped into it," Hakim said. A team of engineers has recently paid a visit to Amritsar and now, the DPR is being prepared in this regard.

The TDA has also taken up the issue of drainage, which has been a major cause of concern at Tarakeshwar. The drainage system will be overhauled by spending Rs 80 crore. "We will be floating the tender soon," the minister said.

Chief minister Mamata Banerjee had held an administrative meeting at Tarakeshwar in Hooghly in June 2017 and had said that the area and the temple will be developed.

The Taraknath temple, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva worshipped as Taraknath, is a major pilgrimage spot in the town of Tarakeshwar in Hooghly district. Built in 1729, the temple is an atchala structure of Bengal temple architecture, with a 'natmandir' in front.