Enhancing Kolkata's Waterfront: The WBTLSDP Project

The World Bank has approved a US$105 million loan to the Government of West Bengal for the Inland Water Transport, Logistics, and Spatial Development Project (WBTLSDP). This initiative aims to revitalize and improve the state's inland waterways and their surrounding areas. Our firm, along with Egis and Ecorys, was involved in the planning and conceptual design for a key part of this project.

Our scope of work focuses on the "Concept Design of Selected Waterfront Area" for two of the upgraded jetties. The goal is to improve accessibility and the overall landscape of these waterfronts within a 500-meter radius of each priority jetty.

Project Locations

Our design efforts are centered on two significant areas along the river:

Sovabazar Ferry Ghat Area: This encompasses a cluster of historic and active ghats, including Ahirtola Ghat, Benetola Ghat, and Sovabazar Ghat, among others.

Serampore Ferry Ghat: This area includes the ghat near the Hanuman Temple, Vivekanand Nidhi Heritage Structure, and the historic Weekly Pet Market, aiming to integrate new infrastructure with existing heritage sites.

Our core design concepts include:

• River Edge Restoration with plantation and boulder pitching.
• Creating a Connecting River Promenade with amenities like benches, lighting, and a jogger's track.
• Existing Ghat Beautification by upgrading steps and adding public utilities.

This project is a critical step in creating vibrant, accessible, and sustainable public spaces that will reconnect the city with its river.