12 Kolkata: Chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday announced that her govt would construct a 5-km-long Gangasagar Setu across the Muriganga river to connect the mainland with Sagar Island, where the annual Gangasagar Mela takes place, following the Centre's lack of response to repeated requests. It may take four yeras to build the bridge, the CM said.
The detailed project report (DPR) for the four-lane bridge is ready. The state will invest Rs 1,500 crore for the construction, with tenders already issued and completion expected within four years.
"We had repeatedly asked the Centre for the bridge, but they did not respond. So, we have decided to build it ourselves. The requisite survey was done and the DPR and tender for the project were completed," she said.
The bridge will benefit both pilgrims attending Ganga Sagar and residents of the island.
At the state secretariat, the CM reviewed preparations for next month's Ganga Sagar Mela. She noted the Centre's lack of financial support for the event, despite funding other religious gatherings like Kumbh Mela.
"I had appealed to them to declare Ganga Sagar as a national fair, but they did not pay any heed," she said.
Regarding the Sagar Mela from Jan 9 to 17, she confirmed all necessary arrangements. Considering the unrest in Bangladesh, the CM instructed various agencies to enhance security measures.
"There are a few areas which are vulnerable this year. We must keep a watch. The Navy, the Coast Guard, the port and police, IB and SB need to keep vigil. We have to be very careful," she said.
The event will involve over 12,000 police personnel, additional watch towers, 2,250 state-run buses, 250 private buses, nine barges, 32 vessels, 100 launches, and 21 jetties.
All vehicles will feature GPS and satellite tracking systems with ISRO's assistance. Banerjee requested railway officials to increase train services from Sealdah, Howrah and Namkhana to accommodate pilgrims. She also asked Kolkata Police to provide eight traffic sergeants for smooth traffic management.
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