The Balurghat Municipality has launched two major civic development projects worth Rs 4 million, aimed at enhancing urban infrastructure and promoting recreational spaces for residents and visitors. The initiatives include the creation of a modern food plaza zone and the renovation of a key connecting road in the city’s administrative area. Municipal Chairman Ashok Kumar Mitra, accompanied by other civic representatives, recently visited wards 11 and 12 to inspect the proposed project sites. Food plaza to showcase culture and cuisine A new food plaza will be developed along the road stretch between Rabindra Bhavan and the District Administrative Building in Ward 12. The plaza will feature around 20 food and refreshment stalls, LED lighting, promotional displays, landscaped seating areas, and artistic installations reflecting local culture and heritage. The municipality has allocated Rs 3 million for the construction and beautification of the food plaza, which is expected to become a new social and cultural hub for the city. Road upgrade for safer, smoother travel In addition, the municipality has drawn up a comprehensive plan to renovate the road adjacent to the District Parishad, covering parts of Wards 11 and 12. The Rs 950,000 project involves replacing the existing concrete surface with paver blocks for greater durability. It will also include the elevation and covering of roadside drains and the construction of a guard wall to improve pedestrian safety. Boosting Balurghat’s civic appeal Commenting on the projects, Chairman Ashok Kumar Mitra said, “The food plaza is being designed as a recreational space for residents to enjoy in the evenings, combining leisure with cultural appeal. We hope it becomes a new centre of attraction in Balurghat. Meanwhile, the adjoining road, used daily by hundreds of commuters, will undergo sustainable upgrades to prevent recurring damage.” Municipal officials believe these developments will not only strengthen civic infrastructure but also contribute to the beautification and vibrancy of Balurghat city.