Cooch Behar, Nov. 2 -- In a major push to boost industrial development in North Bengal, the state government is planning to establish a second industrial hub in Cooch Behar district, with around 387 acres of government land identified in Mekhliganj. The proposed project is expected to attract investment, generate employment and transform the district's socio-economic landscape.
The district administration has decided to transfer the identified land to the state Industries, Commerce and Enterprise department. Sources said the administration has already communicated the land details to the department's secretary. An expert team from the department is expected to visit Mekhliganj in November to inspect the proposed site.
Currently, Chakchaka is the only industrial hub in Cooch Behar, where more than 80 industrial units have been established under the West Bengal Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation.
The proximity of the Changrabandha land port is being considered a major advantage for the proposed project.
Located just a few minutes away by road, the international trade route is expected to facilitate the movement of goods and attract entrepreneurs.
District Magistrate Jitin Yadav said: "The proposal for the second industrial hub has made considerable progress. The administration will extend all possible assistance to entrepreneurs interested in setting up industries. There is no problem regarding land availability. The Industries department will examine the entire matter."
According to administrative sources, food processing is among the sectors being considered, alongside other small and large-scale industries.
The availability of agricultural produce, including potatoes from Cooch Behar and tomatoes from Haldibari, offers considerable potential for food processing units. Jute seed production in the district could also support industrial activities.
The proposed hub is expected to create substantial employment opportunities for local residents. Sources said the process of transferring the land is likely to be completed soon.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.