November 30, 2018
Bangla Govt developing Hooghly as a weekend hotspot
The State Tourism Department has decided to develop Hooghly district as a preferred weekend destination. To attract more tourists, a slew of development projects have been undertaken by the Tourism Department, as well as by other departments and agencies.
The Public Works Department (PWD) is constructing cottages for tourists at the popular island picnic spot of Sabujdweep, on the river Hooghly. The State Irrigation Department is spending Rs 15 crore for constructing an embankment, which will ensure sustainability for the island. According to a senior official of the Tourism Department, another part of Sabujdweep will also be developed in the future.
Two popular picnic spots in Chandannagar, Wonderland Park and New Digha Paryatan Kendra, are being developed by the Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA). While the former is getting cottages at Rs 14 crore, the latter is getting a major facelift and beautification.
The Hooghly Imambara, with its famous clock tower, is being restored by the Tourism Department while a ropeway connecting the imambara with Bandel Church is being planned in PPP mode by the local civic body.
With funds from the Tourism Department, the Ramkrishna Math is constructing a guest house in Antpur. The famous Hanseswari Temple in Bansberia is also undergoing restoration.
It may be mentioned that the 232-year-old heritage structure, Danish Tavern in Sreerampur (also spelt as Serampore), on the banks of the river Hooghly, a remnant of the times when the place was a Danish trading post, has already witnessed an exquisite restoration. It now has a bright cafe area and six private luxurious rooms for lodging. The tavern is now gearing up to welcome overnight guests.
The balcony of the tavern has a great view of the river that constantly ferries people and cargo upstream and downstream. The furniture is traditional, with a series of handpicked paintings on Old Calcutta decking up the walls, giving the place a vintage look.
The Serampore Court, St Olav’s Church and the land registry building have also been refurbished.
Source: Millennium Post
