Digha’s 7.6km Marine Drive road repair project kicks off to boost tourism

As winter approaches, Digha, Mandarmani, Tajpur, and Shankarpur are preparing for a significant increase in tourist activity. In response to this expected surge, the Digha Shankarpur Development Authority, in coordination with the district administration, is focusing on improving the region’s infrastructure, particularly the 7.6-kilometer Marine Drive road connecting Mandarmani to Digha. This vital stretch, which has long required repair, is being upgraded to accommodate the growing number of visitors during the peak season.

The repair work on the Marine Drive road began recently, with a total investment of ₹12 crore allocated to the project. The road will be widened and strengthened to better handle the traffic that typically increases during the winter months, especially around major holidays. The project is expected to be completed within two and a half months, ahead of the anticipated tourist rush in December. This timeline ensures that the road will be ready for the winter season, which is crucial for the local economy, heavily reliant on tourism.

The renovation project follows years of advocacy from the Hotelier's Association and local residents. In particular, there had been issues with land acquisition along the route, which caused delays in the project. However, after these land-related matters were resolved, work on the road began. Local authorities have emphasized that the upgraded road will improve accessibility to the popular coastal destinations, ensuring a better experience for travelers heading to the beaches.

Additionally, the region is nearing the completion of the "Green Clean Digha" project, aimed at improving solid waste management and maintaining cleanliness across Digha. The initiative is expected to be operational by winter, aligning with the seasonal tourist influx. These infrastructure improvements are part of broader efforts to enhance the appeal of Digha as a sustainable and accessible destination for visitors.