Tourism dept looks to develop Hooghly as weekend hotspot

Kolkata: The state Tourism department is all set to develop Hooghly district as a preferred weekend destination. A slew of development projects have been undertaken by the department, as well as a number of government agencies, to woo more and more tourists to Hooghly.

"The popular picnic spot Sabujdwip (the green island) is getting a major infrastructure upgrade, with the Public Works Department (PWD) constructing cottages for tourists. The state Irrigation department is spending Rs 15 crore for constructing an embankment, which will ensure sustainability for the island," state Tourism minister Goutam Deb said.

According to a senior official of the state Tourism department, another part of Sabujdwip will also be developed in future. "There is a litigation pending and once it gets over, we will begin work on the other part of the island," the official added.

The state Tourism department has already commenced work for restoration of the Imambara and the local civic body has planned a ropeway in PPP mode that will connect Imambara with Bandel Church.

"The Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority is spending Rs 14 crore for creating cottage facilities at Wonderland Park in Chandannagar- a popular picnic destination. The New Digha Paryatan Kendra at Chandannagar is also getting a major facelift and beautification by KMDA," Deb

said.

It may be mentioned that the 232-year-old heritage structure known as Denmark Tavern (or Danish Tavern) at Serampore on the banks of river Hooghly, has already witnessed an exquisite restoration.

The tavern now has a bright cafe area and six private luxurious rooms for lodging. The balcony of the tavern has a great view of river Hooghly that constantly ferries people and cargo up and downstream. The furniture is traditional, with a series of handpicked paintings on Old Calcutta on the walls, giving it a vintage look.

The tavern is now gearing up to welcome overnight guests. The Serampore Court, Olav Church and the land registry building have also been refurbished.

"We have allocated funds to Ramkrishna Math for constructing a guest house at Antpur, work for which has already started. The Hanseswari Temple at Bansberia is also undergoing restoration," said Deb.