Howrah Riverfront Set For Mega Makeover With 60-Feet Durga Statue, ‘Kolkata Eye’

Last Updated:June 12, 2026, 08:36 IST

The initiative is expected to improve the aesthetic appeal of the riverfront while also boosting tourism and cultural activities in the area

The western bank of the Ganges in Howrah is set for a major transformation as the newly formed BJP government moves ahead with a long-pending riverfront beautification project that has remained largely dormant despite multiple proposals over the past 15 years.

The ambitious redevelopment initiative aims to revamp several ghats along the Howrah riverfront, improve public spaces and create new tourism landmarks along the Hooghly River. Officials involved with the project say the first phase of work is expected to be completed before the upcoming Durga Puja season.

Among the most prominent features planned under the project is a 60-feet-tall metallic statue of Goddess Durga at Ramkrishnapur Ghat, which is expected to emerge as a major attraction and a new visual landmark on the western bank of the river.

The first phase of the project has been allocated approximately Rs 2 crore and is being undertaken by the urban development department in coordination with the port authorities. The initiative is expected to improve the aesthetic appeal of the riverfront while also boosting tourism and cultural activities in the area.

‘A New Look for the Howrah Riverfront’

Speaking to News18, MoS urban development Umesh Rai said the project would fundamentally transform the appearance of the riverfront.

“We will change the look of the area and this 60-feet Ma Durga statue will be something that the entire country will see. We have already received the land from the port authorities. The port has large tracts of land here, some of which have faced encroachment issues, but this area will now undergo a complete facelift," Rai said.

Officials believe the project could become one of the most visible urban renewal initiatives undertaken on the western bank of the Hooghly in recent years.

‘Kolkata Eye’ Planned Along the Ganges

In another significant development, authorities have cleared the way for the construction of a giant observation wheel modelled on the iconic London Eye.

The proposed “Kolkata Eye" will be developed by a private company that has received land from the Kolkata Port authorities for the project. Approximately 4.5 acres of land along the riverfront have been earmarked for the development.

Once completed, the observation wheel is expected to offer panoramic views of Kolkata, Howrah and the Hooghly River, adding a new tourism attraction to the city’s waterfront landscape.

Focus on Tourism and Urban Renewal

The riverfront redevelopment plan forms part of a broader effort to rejuvenate underutilised stretches of the Hooghly riverbank. Authorities expect the beautification of ghats, installation of public art, improved civic infrastructure and the creation of tourism-oriented attractions to increase visitor footfall and economic activity in the region.

With work now underway after years of delay, the government hopes the Howrah riverfront can emerge as a prominent cultural and recreational destination, complementing similar riverfront development initiatives seen in other major Indian cities.

Further phases of the project are expected to be taken up after the completion of the initial stage ahead of Durga Puja.

About the Author

Kamalika Sengupta

Kamalika Sengupta is the Editor (East) at CNN-News18 / News18.com, focusing on politics, defence, and women’s issues. She is a seasoned multimedia journalist with over 20 years of experience reporting...Read More

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