Wednesday, Nov 04, 2026 23:15 [IST]
Last Update: Tuesday, Nov 03, 2026 17:46 [IST]
DARJEELING,: Darjeeling Lok
Sabha MP Raju Bista on Tuesday said the West Bengal government had decided to
upgrade hospitals in the Hills as well as in Siliguri.
Bista made the announcement in a press
release following an administrative review meeting held at Uttarkanya in
Siliguri, which was attended by West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari.
“I am happy to share that the
government has approved several important development initiatives for our
Darjeeling Hills, Terai, Dooars and North Bengal region. These projects are
aimed at strengthening connectivity, improving healthcare, promoting sports,
preserving our spiritual heritage and boosting tourism,” he said.
“The government has decided to repair,
modernise and upgrade the hospitals in Darjeeling, Kurseong, Kalimpong, Mirik
and Siliguri. These hospitals serve a vast population across the region, and
strengthening their infrastructure and healthcare facilities will greatly
improve access to quality medical services for the people of our region,” he
said.
He added that the Chief Minister had
also announced that the foundation stone for Kalimpong Medical College would be
laid on December 9 this year.
Listing other development projects in
the region, Bista said approval had been granted for a 21-kilometre ropeway
connecting Kurseong and Darjeeling. The project, he said, would provide an
alternative mode of transportation, help ease traffic congestion and
significantly improve convenience for local residents and tourists.
“Further, approval has been granted
for the upgradation and development of Lebong Ground into a modern stadium
equipped with comprehensive facilities. This will provide a major boost to
sports, youth engagement and the nurturing of local talent,” he said.
He also said that an allocation of Rs
19 crore had been approved for the beautification, development and upkeep of
the Mahakal Mandir premises in Darjeeling.
Bista said the Chief Minister had also
directed the repair and refurbishment of all government-run tourist lodges to
strengthen tourism infrastructure and improve facilities for visitors.
“These landmark initiatives represent
a significant step towards building a more connected, prosperous and vibrant
North Bengal region. Beyond infrastructure development, they will generate
employment opportunities for our youth, encourage tourism, stimulate economic
activity and improve the overall quality of life of our people,” Bista said.
