Will Kolkata's Heritage Buildings Be Hoarding-Free?
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Synopsis
Kolkata's Mayor announces a transformative initiative to restore the city's heritage buildings by removing unsightly hoardings and banners, ensuring that history is preserved and celebrated. This beautification effort comes just in time for the bustling Durga Puja festival, highlighting the importance of cultural heritage in the city.
Key Takeaways
- Kolkata's heritage buildings will be restored by removing advertisements.
- Jadavpur University and the Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology will identify these structures.
- Hoarding removal is part of a broader beautification drive.
- The initiative is timed before the significant Durga Puja festival.
- Hawkers will not be allowed near restored heritage sites.
Kolkata, Aug 1 (NationPress) In a significant initiative focused on the beautification and preservation of cultural heritage, the exteriors of Kolkata's heritage buildings will soon be cleared of all advertisement hoardings, banners, and festoons, as announced by city Mayor Firhad Hakim on Friday.
The responsibility of identifying these heritage structures has been handed over to two esteemed engineering institutions in the state: Jadavpur University in Kolkata and the Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology located in Shibpur, adjacent to Howrah district.
“Once the identification process is completed, we will ensure that the exteriors of these heritage buildings are restored to their original state, free from any advertisement hoardings, banners, and festoons,” the Mayor stated during his weekly interactive program titled “Talk to Mayor” on Friday.
He elaborated that the two engineering institutions would assess the heritage structures based on their historical and archaeological significance.
“It has been observed that some heritage structures have been entirely obscured by advertisement hoardings, banners, and festoons. This situation is unacceptable, and the Kolkata Municipal Corporation is committed to addressing this issue,” said Hakim, who also serves as the West Bengal Municipal Affairs and Urban Development Minister.
Moreover, he indicated that the fronts of these heritage structures would be enhanced with illumination, and hawkers would be prohibited from setting up in front of them. “We are serious about preserving our heritage,” Hakim added.
Recently, KMC officials identified several city intersections that will be designated as no-hoarding zones.
This initiative forms part of KMC's broader beautification campaign, especially in light of the upcoming Durga Puja festival, which attracts millions of visitors, including international tourists, eager to experience Bengal's most significant cultural and religious celebration.
Point of View
This initiative by Kolkata's Mayor highlights a commitment to preserving cultural heritage amidst urbanization. The decision to remove hoardings and enhance the visibility of heritage buildings reflects a growing recognition of the importance of historical architecture in city life. Such actions are pivotal for cultivating a sense of identity and pride within communities.
NationPress
01/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the removal of advertisements from heritage buildings?
The initiative aims to restore the cultural integrity of Kolkata's heritage buildings and enhance their visibility, particularly before the Durga Puja festival.
Which institutions are involved in identifying heritage buildings?
The identification process is entrusted to Jadavpur University and the Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology.
What actions will be taken against hoardings?
The Kolkata Municipal Corporation will actively remove hoardings and banners from heritage structures to preserve their historical appearance.
Will hawkers be allowed near these buildings?
No, hawkers will not be permitted to set up in front of the heritage structures as part of this initiative.
When is the initiative expected to be completed?
The process will begin as soon as the heritage buildings are identified, with a focus on completing it before the upcoming Durga Puja festival.
