175 hawkers rehabilitated in Kalighat, shop keys handed over before Skywalk inauguration

A total of 175 hawkers displaced due to the Kalighat redevelopment project have been officially rehabilitated, with their shop keys handed over by Kolkata Mayor-in-Council (Hawker Rehabilitation) and Rashbehari MLA Debasish Kumar. These hawkers, previously operating in the now-demolished refugee market near Kalighat Temple, were temporarily relocated to Hazra Park. The new market structure has been completed, allowing them to resume business. The event was attended by local councilor Prabir Mukherjee, Trinamool leader Kumar Saha, municipal officials, and the Officer-in-Charge of Kalighat Police Station.

Debasish Kumar stated that the rehabilitation was carried out as per prior commitments. “We have fulfilled our promise by handing over shop keys to all 175 hawkers,” he said. He also made it clear that no additional hawkers would be accommodated in the area. “Arrangements have been made to ensure both smooth pedestrian movement near Kalighat Temple and proper business space for hawkers. No new hawkers will be allowed to encroach,” he added.

The Kalighat Skywalk project, which has been completed, is scheduled for inauguration by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Akshaya Tritiya. The skywalk is expected to ease congestion in the area, providing direct connectivity from Kalighat Metro Station to the temple premises. Authorities have stated that its operation will help manage the heavy footfall of devotees and visitors, addressing long-standing issues of overcrowding and traffic congestion.

Hawkers who received their shop keys expressed relief at being reinstated. The Kolkata Municipal Corporation has stated that the rehabilitation process was carried out in an organized manner to prevent future encroachments. With the market now operational, the focus remains on the upcoming skywalk inauguration, which aims to enhance accessibility and streamline movement around the temple.