Kolkata: Gangasagar Mela will get a major makeover, with the state govt planning to develop its infrastructure along the lines of Kumbh Mela. Expansion of the fairground, additional accommodation for pilgrims and improved transport facilities are among the key priorities as the administration prepares to host a large gathering of pilgrims from across the country and abroad.A high-level administrative meeting to review preparations for the annual fair has begun at Sagar Mela office. The meeting, chaired by chief secretary Manoj Agarwal, is being attended by state police director general Siddhinath Gupta, home secretary Sanghamitra Ghosh, secretaries of various departments and other senior officials.District magistrate Abhishek Tewary, along with the superintendents of police of Diamond Harbour and Sundarban police districts, is also present. According to administrative sources, plans are underway to increase the overall area of the fair this year. Special emphasis is being laid on expanding accommodation facilities for pilgrims and strengthening basic infrastructure, including drinking water supply, toilets, security arrangements and other civic amenities.The administration is also planning to increase the number of special transport services operating through air and waterways to ensure smoother movement of pilgrims to and from the island. The arrangements are being planned keeping in mind the possibility of a substantial increase in footfall.To ensure coordinated management of the fair, officials from various departments will be assigned specific responsibilities and deployed on the ground from the beginning of January. The administration plans to strengthen monitoring of preparations, public services and security arrangements to ensure the smooth conduct of the event.The overall objective is to make Gangasagar Mela more organised and modern, with upgraded infrastructure and facilities that meet international standards, officials said.
