Idol hub set to become living heritage district; KMDA to draft project plan, upgrade infrastructure

The state government has decided to develop Kumartuli as a living cultural heritage district and has appointed the Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA) as the nodal agency for implementing the project.

Senior officials at Nabanna said the proposal envisages a phased development of Kumartuli while preserving its traditional character and strengthening artisans’ livelihoods.

“There are nine to 10 hubs in Kumartuli. The plan includes integrating them and providing improved infrastructure, proper common facilities and amenities to promote tourism,” a senior official of the information and cultural affairs department said.

“KMDA has been identified as the nodal agency for implementing this,” the official added.

Located between Sovabazar and Ahiritola in north Calcutta, Kumartuli is characterised by narrow lanes and bylanes. Around 166 studios produce nearly 8,500 idols at the hub.

Durga Puja organisers estimate that Kumartuli accounts for 35-40% of the city’s idol-making market. Artisans from Krishnanagar are believed to have settled in the area nearly 300 years ago.

Last year, Kumartuli generated a turnover of more than ₹200 crore.

In a letter to the KMDA chief executive officer earlier this month, the government outlined a five-point action plan for the project. The key tasks include:

• Prepare a detailed project report (DPR) and an integrated master plan for the entire area, covering the artisan hubs, with appropriate spatial planning, infrastructure proposals, development components, and a phased implementation strategy.

• Draw up a detailed cost estimate.

• Engage a reputed and experienced architectural and urban planning consultancy to provide professional support in spatial planning, architectural design, preparing the DPR, and subsequent support during project implementation.

• Prepare a preliminary GIS-based spatial plan to identify the proposed hubs and map existing assets and facilities, including an assessment of the earlier idol-making hub initiative and other government assets in the area.

• Initiate consultations with artisan groups, residents, professionals, local institutions, and other stakeholders so their requirements and concerns are reflected in the DPR.

“The project may kindly be accorded priority, in view of the unique cultural heritage, traditional craftsmanship, livelihood significance and tourism potential of Kumartuli,” the letter from the principal secretary of the information and cultural affairs department stated.

“The development interventions should be planned in a manner that ensures improvement of infrastructure and working conditions while retaining the historic character and living cultural identity... of the area,” the letter said.

Veteran Kumartuli artisans said the government had drawn up a similar initiative in 2005 but it never materialised.“If it is executed this time, it will be good for everyone in and around Kumartuli,” said artisan Ganesh Pal.