"West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee has laid the foundation stone for the ₹1,670-crore Gangasagar Setu, marking the start of this long-awaited infrastructure project."

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee recently laid the foundation stone for the ₹1,670-crore, 4.8 km-long Gangasagar Setu at Sagar Islands, describing it as a historic project that will transform connectivity in the region. The bridge, to be constructed by L&T over the Muriganga River, will link Kakdwip on the mainland to Kachuberia and is expected to be completed within two years.

Speaking at the event, the CM criticised the BJP-led Union government, alleging that it “did literally nothing for Bengal.” Without naming leaders, she said, “Some people came here a few days ago and lied. Liars always lie. I forgive them. Their only job is to spread lies, corruption and authoritarianism… Just look at Gangasagar and you will understand what the Trinamool has done. You [BJP] did literally nothing. You only come during elections.”

Banerjee highlighted the socio-economic benefits of the project, saying the four-lane bridge will serve around three lakh residents, facilitate trade, reduce transport costs for agricultural produce, generate employment, and boost tourism. She added that the bridge would be vital during natural calamities, allowing relief to reach affected areas more quickly.

Referring to Kapil Muni Ashram, the CM called it “Bengal’s pride” and noted it had been damaged by a natural calamity last year but has since been renovated. She also said that prior to 2011, infrastructure in Gangasagar was poor, and the state government has since modernised the area, including constructing three helipads and ensuring organised management of the Gangasagar Mela with active supervision from ministers, officials, and NGOs.

Banerjee also contrasted the state government’s welfare schemes with those of the BJP, saying, “You [BJP] gave ₹10,000 merely to win elections, whereas we provided nearly ₹60,000 over the past five years. From birth to death, our schemes cover everyone without any discrimination.”

In addition to the Gangasagar Setu, the CM inaugurated and laid foundation stones for 96 projects worth ₹394 crore and 70 projects valued at ₹1,929.3 crore, bringing the total investment to ₹2,323.3 crore. These include the ‘Sagar Kanya’ 100-bed dormitory costing ₹8.8 crore and the ‘Ganganna’ tourism cottage.

Banerjee also visited Bharat Sevashram Sangha and Kapil Muni Ashram to offer prayers. She said preparations for the Gangasagar Mela, beginning on January 8, are in full swing, with a team of 10-12 officials stationed on-site. “We are expecting more than 1 crore pilgrims this time,” she added.

The Gangasagar Setu is expected to not only improve regional connectivity but also strengthen trade, tourism, and emergency response in the island region.