Bengal Allows Construction In Tea Estates To Boost Tourism, Jobs

In a decision that is likely to revive the industry in the state, the West Bengal cabinet on October 31, 2019, approved a proposal to allow construction work in tea gardens. According to the proposal, construction work might be allowed on 15 per cent of land of a tea estate. This may, however, not exceed 150 acres. 

According to senior minister Partha Chatterjee, the cabinet decision would not cause any job loss and the construction could be done without any adverse impact on the environment. The decision will 'definitely help eco-friendly tourism, boost employability and revive the tea industry', the minister said.

Some of the tea estates in the state are popular tourist destinations and attract travellers from across the world for long vacation stays.  

Earlier, the state government had extended a helping hand to support the closed tea gardens' workers and announced a government subsidy of Rs 1,500 per month to the affected parties. Some of the closed tea gardens were taken over by the government and auctioned to a new management.

With inputs from Housing.com News