Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Siliguri Among Cities Selected for Special Initiative

West Bengal Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Minister Agnimitra Paul on Sunday announced that the Centre has proposed a comprehensive initiative to develop five major cities in North Bengal as Himalayan hill cities.

Speaking to reporters at Uttarkanya, Paul said that Union Minister Manohar Lal had put forward the proposal as part of a broader strategy to strengthen urban infrastructure and promote sustainable development in the Himalayan region.

The five cities identified under the proposed initiative are Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Kurseong, Mirik, and Siliguri. These locations serve as important tourism, commercial, and administrative centres in North Bengal and play a vital role in connecting the Himalayan region with the rest of the country.

According to the minister, the proposed development programme is expected to focus on improving civic infrastructure, transportation networks, urban services, environmental sustainability, and tourism-related facilities. Enhanced planning and investment could help these cities accommodate growing populations while preserving their ecological and cultural significance.

The initiative could also strengthen North Bengal’s position as a major tourism hub by improving visitor amenities and connectivity to popular hill destinations. Siliguri, often referred to as the gateway to the Northeast and the Himalayas, is expected to play a central role in the regional development framework.

While detailed project plans and timelines are yet to be announced, the proposal signals the Centre’s intention to accelerate urban transformation in the Himalayan belt and create model hill cities capable of supporting sustainable economic growth and improved quality of life for residents.

The proposal is likely to generate significant interest among local stakeholders, tourism operators, and urban planners as discussions on implementation move forward.