UK firm to finalise report on Howrah township

Kolkata: UK-based multi-disciplinary consultancy firm Mott MacDonald is in the final stages of preparing the final concept planning report on the regeneration of Howrah township, which it plans to submit to the Department for International Development of UK by October this year.

The company has already presented a broad strategy to DFID suggesting three prospective projects for specific areas in Howrah, which are expected to take shape in 12 months time, Mr Michael Moulds, team leader, Urban and Regional Planning, Mott MacDonalds, said.

Mott McDonalds is also engaged in developing a master plan for tourism development in collaboration with Damodar Valley Corporation spanning West Bengal, Bihar and Jharkhand, Mr Moulds said. “DVC has commissioned the project and it is expected to get under way in a year’s time,” he said.

Mr Moulds said, “we have identified three thrust sectors, apart from the already proposed riverfront development initiative, which can act as catalysts in reviving the declining industrial status of Howrah. The master plan proposes the southern fringes of Howrah to be developed into a centre for sport and fitness.

The central area surrounding Domjur can be developed into a hub for biotech and pharmaceuticals, while the northern portions can be developed into a health and hospitality hub,” Mr Moulds said.

The West Bengal Government will soon form a special purpose vehicle, Mr Moulds said, adding that Mott MacDonalds will continue to act as a facilitator to the project. DFID will submit the master plan to the Howrah Municipality and the State Government as soon as it receives the draft report from Mott Macdonalds. SBI Capital Markets will assist in financial planning for the project, Mr Moulds said.

The project, proposed to be funded by DFID, is expected to provide a facelift to the district and revive its “declining status of a manufacturing base”.

Mott MacDonalds has also identified seven sick PSUs , for revival as a part of the state undertaking restructuring programme to be financed by DFID.

The final report will be submitted in another six months, Mr Mould said. He however, declined to name the identified companies stating, “they span across all sectors”.