Coastal Bengal Update: New Tourism Roadmap for Purba Medinipur

The West Bengal government has unveiled an ambitious development roadmap for the 27-km coastline stretching from Udaypur to Petuaghat in Purba Medinipur. According to Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, this initiative aims to transform the region into a premier tourism hub, with planned improvements including the beautification of Amarabati Park in Digha and the introduction of helicopter services to the area. To support local entrepreneurship, the government is offering a ₹5 lakh subsidy for eligible individuals establishing four-room homestays in designated tourist spots. The plan also includes significant coastal erosion protection projects at Chandpur and Shankarpur, as reported by The Statesman. For travelers visiting the region, please note that while Digha and Mandarmani remain open, the sea can become rough during high tides; visitors are advised to avoid swimming in unsafe areas like Old Digha, where erosion has necessitated the use of concrete barriers. Regarding the Sundarbans, all tourism activities remain subject to strict forest department regulations. Access to the mangrove forest requires a valid entry permit, which must be secured through official channels before arranging any boat or launch transport. Travelers are reminded that there is no conventional jeep safari in the Sundarbans; all exploration must be conducted via authorized water vessels under the guidance of forest staff to ensure both visitor safety and ecological preservation.