After Kumartuli, another ghat in north Kolkata is all set for a makeover. The Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, (SMP), has entered into collaboration with a private company for the redevelopment of Nimtala Ghat in northern parts of the city.
The SMP has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with PS Group Realty Private Limited for the redevelopment, renovation and beautification of Nimtala Immersion Ghat under the corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative of the private company. The MoU signed is an initiative under the central government’s Namami Gange Programme aimed at reviving and maintaining the sanctity of the Ganges. As a part of the agreement, PS Group would undertake complete redevelopment of Nimtala immersion Ghat, including beautification and landscaping with the help of SMP.
Speaking on the collaborative project, Rathendra Raman, chairman of SMP, said, “The Nimtala Ghat holds spiritual and social significance for city citizens for performing various rituals and its revitalisation will enhance not only the city’s riverfront aesthetics but also civic pride. We are glad to have a socially responsible partner like PS Group joining us in this noble cause. This long-term collaboration will felicitate further enhancements and improvements as per the public demand.”
As learnt from sources in the city port, the SMP is to provide free access and essential utilities for the project’s execution, such as electricity, water and security. Upon completion, the ghat would be handed over to SMP Kolkata for long-term maintenance, as per the agreement. The city port authorities would also facilitate all statutory clearances and drainage provisions as a part of the CSR project aimed at uplifting the ghat that was said to be on the verge of death by many members of the civil society.
The initiative, now, is anticipated to bring the much required oxygen to the city’s iconic ghat that had undergone erosion in the recent past. Mayor of Kolkata Municipal Corporation on various occasions has also pointed out that some of the ghats on the Ganges, like the Nimtala Ghat are getting massively eroded and are said to have reached a dangerous point. During the immersion of idols in the last Durga Puja, the civic body had even barricaded a portion of Nimtala Ghat, sensing danger.
The mayor had also held talks with the port authorities reiterating immediate steps to address the issue.