Kolkata: More metro trains will be available during the Kolkata Book Fair, scheduled to be held from January 18, officials of the publishers and booksellers’ guild said on Monday. There will also be a fixed rate chart for autorickshaws ferrying passengers back and forth from the book fair ground. For the first time, there will be a special digital map consisting the participants’ list for visitors to find out and locate the exact position of a particular stall.“All one need to do is to scan a QR code at all the entry points of the book fair,” said a guild official.
Guild president Tridib Chatterjee said they had earlier given a proposal to the metro authorities for running more trains from Sealdah for the convenience of visitors. “The metro authorities have agreed to the proposal. The transport department will also provide additional bus services,” Chatterjee added.
“We are in touch with the Bidhannagar Traffic Police and auto unions. There will be a fixed rate chart for autos moving from the fair ground,” guild honorary general secretary, Sudhangshu Dey said.
Guild officials said that the upcoming 47th International Kolkata Book Fair is going to be largest till date with around 1,000 stalls. Chief minister Mamata Banerjee will inagurate the book fair on January 18 in presence of Alex Ellis CMG, British High Commissioner to India, Alison Barrett MBE, director, British Council, India and eminent author Bani Basu along with other dignitaries.
Around 20 countries from across the globe will participate with the United Kingdom being the theme country this time. “This year we have alloted stalls to many more small publishers,” Chatterjee said.
There will be nine entry and exit gates at the book fair for easy movement of visitors. One of the gates will be a replica of London Tower Bridge. Another gate will be a replica of Bethune School, which is commemorating its 175th foundation year. The book fair will have virtual live presence through its website and social media pages. Those living abroad will be able to enjoy the book fair programmes and events online. A private university has tied up with the guild to be its digital partner. Also like the previous years, the national jute board will be the green partner. Also for the first time, a senior citizens’ day will be organised on January 24.
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