Revival of Civic Projects Post-Elections in Kolkata
KMC to Enhance Infrastructure with Drainage, Waste Management, and Water Supply Initiatives
Kolkata Municipal Corporation to Resume Civic Projects Post-Elections
Kolkata: The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has announced the resumption of several key civic projects that were delayed due to the Lok Sabha elections. These projects include drainage work along the Eastern Metropolitan (EM) Bypass, compensation to farmers in Dhapa, and repairs to the city’s water supply network.
During the election campaign, the Trinamool Congress emphasized civic services, with councillors conducting door-to-door visits to address issues related to water supply and drainage, as well as the distribution of welfare scheme benefits.
The EM Bypass, a critical artery of the city, experienced significant waterlogging following rains in May, attributed to choked gully pits and a lack of cleaning. A senior KMC official acknowledged the need for a proper drainage network and cleaning of existing sewer lines, which was impeded by the inability to obtain police permission to block sections of the bypass during the elections.
Mayor Firhad Hakim has expressed his intent to seek police permission once again to carry out the necessary work. Affected areas included service lanes near Ruby Hospital and stretches opposite Silver Spring and in front of Captain Bheri.
The construction of the Kalighat skywalk, another significant project aimed at easing pedestrian access to the Kalighat temple, has also faced delays. The project, which missed its initial deadlines, has been slowed down due to the absence of workers during the election period. The KMC has yet to announce a new completion date.
In Dhapa, the KMC plans to reclaim approximately 180 acres of land to establish waste processing facilities. Over 820 farmers who have cultivated this land for decades are to receive a solatium of ₹50,000 per cottah. However, the payment process was halted due to the elections, with concerns that it might violate the model code of conduct. KMC officials are hopeful for a swift government approval to proceed with the compensation and the subsequent construction of the waste processing plants.
These plants are part of KMC’s initiative to address the city’s solid waste management, as Kolkata generates about 4,000 tonnes of solid waste daily, but only 525 tonnes are currently processed. The resumption of these projects is expected to significantly improve the city’s infrastructure and quality of life for its residents.
