“If elected, Siliguri will become a full-fledged district”: Gautam Deb’s major promise

Siliguri Mayor and Trinamool Congress candidate Gautam Deb has announced a major poll promise, stating that if elected, Siliguri will be made a full-fledged district. He said the proposal aims to reduce administrative inconvenience for residents who currently have to travel to Darjeeling or Jalpaiguri for official work, while also transforming Siliguri into a modern and developed urban centre.

Presenting his election manifesto, Deb emphasised that comprehensive development of Siliguri remains his top priority. He outlined plans to improve road infrastructure, drainage systems, market facilities, and to address long-standing traffic congestion issues. He also proposed expanding municipal wards to improve governance efficiency and service delivery in the city.

The most significant announcement in his manifesto is the proposal to upgrade Siliguri into a separate district, a long-standing demand in the region. The plan is being positioned as a solution to administrative difficulties faced by residents, while the Trinamool Congress claims it would streamline governance and reduce dependency on neighbouring districts for essential services.

In addition to district status, Deb proposed several infrastructure and civic development projects, including better drinking water supply, land pattas for eligible residents, development of an “office district” in Kawakhali, redevelopment of the dumping ground, renovation of Bidhan Market, construction of an international-standard cricket stadium, and a ₹100 crore cancer hospital. He also reiterated that solving traffic congestion remains his top priority, claiming that a detailed blueprint has already been prepared.

Following this, Abhishek Banerjee, while campaigning in Raidigri, promised that Mathurapur would be made a separate subdivision if his party comes to power. He also criticised rising inflation and assured improved connectivity, including a direct bus service from Raidigri to Digha after the elections, as part of broader development commitments.