Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) in Kolkata has sought clearance of certain sections of the Dakshineswar Skywalk for a particular extension, which is likely to lead to demolition of the newly built skywalk. The letter was sent by the RVNL. Metro Railways have written to the Public Works Department (PWD) of the West Bengal government to relocate a section of the Skywalk. Skywalk is a bridgeway for pilgrims built by the state government, which helps them reach the Dakshineswar temple.
“They are audacious. I can help them to make new routes as I was the Railway Minister myself but cannot allow demolition of our Sky Walk,” Banerjee said. The Skywalk is a walking bridge that leads to Dakshineswar Temple. “They talk about religion and are now trying to demolish the skywalk,” Banerjee slammed.
Metro authorities had written the letter to the Bengal government last November but it reached Banerjee through various departments recently. Banerjee said she learnt about the issue by reading a newspaper and instructed the officials that this kind of letter should reach her directly henceforth.
“In a bid to clear the traffic jam near Dakshineswar temple, we have created the Skywalk. I will not allow demolition of Dakshineswar Skywalk till my last drop of blood. I have worked hard, removed the hawkers, conducted several meetings and rehabilitated them through negotiations for taking the Skywalk project forward. The project is very close to my heart. After some days, they will ask us to demolish Kalighat Temple,” Banerjee said.
“Our job is to develop infrastructure. I am ready to help the Metro authority with changes in their plans but that can only happen through field visits, not through surveys and meetings,” Banerjee emphasized.“If there are any problems, let them sit with me. Let them discuss the matter,” she said.Meanwhile, Banerjee said one crore plus people visited Ganga Sagar Mela and the state government, along with ministers and officials, have functioned round the clock to ensure the fair work runs smoothly.
