Kolkata, June 23 (IANS) Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port Kolkata (SMPK) and Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited (APSEZ) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to restore and reimagine the historic Kumartuli Ghat riverfront in Kolkata.

The 300-metre stretch from Kumartuli Ghat to Champatala Ghat has immense significance in the celebration of Durga Puja, not only in Kolkata, but around the world.

Idols made along the eastern bank of the Hooghly river along this stretch move to Puja pandals in Kolkata, several districts of West Bengal, the US and several countries in Europe.

Durga Puja in Kolkata has been recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Kumartuli’s idol-making, daily rituals, and community life have been inseparable from the Hooghly river from time immemorial.

This project to restore Kumartuli Ghat riverfront aims to revive that living connection for artisans, devotees, and citizens.

Repair and retrofit of heritage ghat structures, temples, and shrines using traditional techniques will be undertaken under the project to preserve the precinct’s sacred ambience.

It will involve strengthening of bank protection, upgradation of ritual platforms, construction of pedestrian-friendly walkways, and universal access to the river’s edge.

Dedicated zones will be created for artisans, cultural events, passive recreation and boating.

There will be viewing decks, food courts, souvenir stalls, and community toilets.

The development will be ecologically sustainable, with green embankments, native riverine plantations, and sacred groves inspired by Vrindavan.

There will be architectural illumination for ghats and Kumartuli facades, as well as first aid, safety, and surveillance systems for a secure, well-managed environment.

“Kumartuli is Kolkata’s cultural soul. Through this partnership with APSEZ Limited, we are not just restoring infrastructure but reviving a space woven into West Bengal’s identity. The project will make the ghat safer, cleaner, and more welcoming for all,” Rathendra Raman, SMPK Chairman, said.

The project will be completed before upcoming Durga Puja at an estimated cost of Rs 10 crore.

The redevelopment will be executed in phase-wise manner to ensure minimal disruption, especially during Durga Puja.

On completion, Kumartuli Ghat will emerge as a vibrant, inclusive public space that blends Bengal’s artistic legacy with modern infrastructure.

–IANS

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