Kolkata, May 26: The West Bengal government has approached the Civil Aviation Ministry for upgrading Bagdogra airport in Siliguri to international standard and expects that the new Central government will consider the state's long-pending demand to boost tourism and industry in north Bengal. The state's Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Department Minister, Ashok Bhattacharya, said that his government would request the Union government to consider the long-standing demands of the people of north Bengal and also to provide regular funds to the 'Uttarbanga Unnayan Parshad' for speedy implementation of various social and infrastructural projects.
Speaking at an interactive session organised by the Bengal Chamber of Commerce, Bhattacharya said, "the proposal of upgrading Bagdogra airport to international standard is pending with the Ministry of Civil Aviation."
He said that the state had also urged the Centre to provide incentives for setting up industries in north Bengal at par with those existing for industries being set up in the North-Eastern states. There was immense potential for development of tourism, food processing industries, trade and commerce in north Bengal and a renewed emphasis was given in this regard by the state government, he said.
Protocols had been signed between India and China for facilitation of export of fresh fruits and vegetables to China through Nathula trade route and this would increase importance of north Bengal.
Bureau Report