Fulbari, 07th June: The West Bengal government has announced plans to develop five major towns in North Bengal as “Himalayan Hill Cities” while also introducing fines for littering and the use of single-use plastics from September 1.
The announcement was made by State Minister for Urban Development and Women & Child Welfare, Agnimitra Paul, following an administrative review meeting at Uttarkanya on Sunday.
Under the proposed Himalayan Hill City initiative, Siliguri, Darjeeling, Kurseong, Kalimpong and Mirik will be integrated and developed through a coordinated approach focusing on tourism, urban infrastructure, environmental conservation and modern civic amenities.
Addressing reporters after the meeting, the Minister said the state government is taking stringent measures to maintain cleanliness and promote environmental sustainability. As part of the initiative, penalties will be imposed on individuals found littering in public places or violating restrictions on single-use plastics from September 1.
The meeting reviewed the progress of various government projects, welfare schemes and measures related to the safety of women and children. Discussions also focused on monsoon preparedness, drainage infrastructure, drinking water supply, solid waste management and civic services across urban areas of North Bengal, including the Siliguri Municipal Corporation.
Among those present at the meeting were Darjeeling MP Raju Bista, Jalpaiguri MP Jayanta Roy, MLAs from different districts of North Bengal and senior administrative officials.
Officials also discussed issues related to on-street parking management, dumping grounds, digital advertising policies, waste management and the status of ongoing development projects. The Minister issued necessary directives to the concerned departments to ensure timely implementation.
Following the Uttarkanya meeting, Agnimitra Paul was scheduled to hold separate review meetings with administrative officials from Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts later in the day.