Bhubaneswar: West Bengal is set to add a striking new landmark to its skyline with the installation of a 60-foot-tall statue of Maa Durga along the Hooghly riverfront at Ramkrishnapur Ghat in Howrah. The project forms part of an ambitious riverfront redevelopment initiative aimed at enhancing tourism, beautifying public spaces and celebrating the state’s rich cultural heritage.
The towering statue is expected to become one of the most recognizable attractions on the banks of the Hooghly River, symbolizing Bengal’s deep-rooted devotion to Maa Durga and its centuries-old cultural traditions. Once completed, the monument is likely to draw both pilgrims and tourists, further strengthening the region’s reputation as a major cultural destination.
The proposed installation is part of a broader effort to transform the Howrah riverfront into a vibrant recreational and tourism hub. Authorities envision the redeveloped waterfront as a modern public space that combines cultural identity with leisure and tourism infrastructure.
Among the other major attractions planned under the redevelopment project is the “Kolkata Eye,” a giant observation wheel inspired by the iconic London Eye. The proposed structure is expected to offer panoramic views of Kolkata, Howrah and the Hooghly River, adding a new dimension to the city’s tourism landscape.
Officials believe that the combined impact of the Maa Durga statue, improved riverfront amenities and the proposed observation wheel will significantly enhance the appeal of the Hooghly waterfront. The project is expected to attract visitors from across India and abroad while creating new opportunities for local businesses, tourism operators and cultural activities.
The redevelopment initiative reflects West Bengal’s efforts to preserve and showcase its cultural legacy while investing in modern urban infrastructure. By blending heritage, spirituality and tourism, the transformed riverfront is envisioned as a landmark destination that celebrates Bengal’s enduring connection with Maa Durga and the Hooghly River.
Once completed, the project is expected to establish the Howrah riverfront as one of eastern India’s most prominent cultural and tourist attractions, offering residents and visitors a unique space where tradition and contemporary urban development come together.
-OdishaAge
