West Bengal Announces Major Coastal Tourism Hub and Helicopter Services

The West Bengal government has announced an ambitious Rs 1,600 crore infrastructure project to develop a 27-km coastal stretch between Talpati and Udaypur in Purba Medinipur district, according to reports from Swarajya and Hindustan Times. The initiative aims to elevate the tourism appeal of Digha, Mandarmani, Shankarpur, and Tajpur. As part of this development, the state plans to introduce regular helicopter services to Digha to improve connectivity for visitors. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has directed the Digha-Shankarpur Development Authority to coordinate with multiple departments to execute this roadmap, which includes anti-erosion projects and the revival of the Digha snake park. To encourage local participation, the government is offering a Rs 5 lakh subsidy for entrepreneurs establishing four-room homestays in the designated coastal zones. Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department has issued a weather advisory for today, November 10, noting isolated thunderstorms and lightning in Gangetic West Bengal; travelers are advised to exercise caution and follow local safety regulations near water bodies.