Kolkata: The state on Tuesday cleared a major impediment in the Mayer Bari beautification project, paving the way for completion of five apartment blocks to relocate 100 families. The construction had been stalled since March following the enforcement of the model code of conduct (MCC) for the Bengal assembly polls.The shifting of residents from the slum adjacent to Mayer Bari in Bagbazar to apartments under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana is the first step before renovation and beautification of the area around Mayer Bari. This is part of the state’s proposal to develop the place into an international tourist destination.Minister of state for tourism Purnima Chakraborty, who is also the local MLA, along with Kolkata Municipal Corporation commissioner Smita Pandey and other senior civic officials held a meeting with the authorities of Mayer Bari.“Work had been progressing very slowly under the previous govt. In the last 7-8 years, only 80 out of 300 families were relocated. I have asked the municipal commissioner to take all possible measures to speed up construction of five more blocks where another 100 families will be shifted,” said Chakraborty. The remaining 120 families will be relocated to flats in the following phase.Chakraborty said she has spoken to the people currently residing in makeshift houses built of tin sheds and they are willing to shift to apartments. “The centre has a keen interest in the development of Mayer Bari. The rejuvenation work of Kumartuli Ghat next to Mayer Bari is going on in full swing,” Chakraborty added.An official associated with Ramakrishna Math and Mission, which maintains Mayer Bari, said 30% of the land will be freed after complete relocation of the slum dwellers.According to plans, the state will develop a parking space, public toilet and a garden as part of the beautification project. The stretch around the heritage building will also be beautified and then decorated with lights to give it a majestic look.Ramakrishna Math will carry out rejuvenation and beautification of Mayer Bari and develop the road leading to the place.Ramakrishna Paramhansha’s wife Sarada Devi had lived in the two-storey house off Bagbazar Street for 11 years, from 1909 to 1920. Hundreds of devotees and tourists from India and abroad visit the building every day.
