Before the Gangasagar Mela, chief minister Mamata Banerjee has issued strict instructions on Tuesday to control reckless driving in Kolkata and South 24-Parganas.

On the second and final day of her trip to the Gangasagar, she stated that tourists from across India and even international visit this sacred and spiritual site for blessings, holy bath and their safety and smooth return must be ensured by the police. “I am directing the police officers to make sure that no vehicle crosses the speed limit of 40 km/h. This must be strictly enforced from Babughat to Gangasagar. Help desks will be available at all points. General guidelines in various Indian languages must be distributed to the pilgrims,” said Mamata Banerjee.

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On Tuesday, the chief minister inaugurated several projects from Gangasagar. Through these project inaugurations, she conveyed a special message to everyone, warning against any attempts to incite unrest regarding the Gangasagar fair. Mamata Banerjee said, “Some may create minor issues and try to provoke unrest. If you notice any problem anywhere, bring it to the administration’s attention. Once the issue is brought to notice, it can be resolved.” She urged everyone to ensure that no negative perception is created about the Gangasagar Mela.

The chief minister emphasised, “Gangasagar Mela is unique on a global scale. Everyone must ensure that no negative narrative is spread about this event.” On Monday, Mamata Banerjee criticised the central government for not declaring Gangasagar Mela a national fair. She reiterated this criticism on Tuesday and stated that their aim is to make Gangasagar a plastic-free fair. She claimed this is a remarkable initiative, yet the central government has not provided any assistance for it. Mamata further alleged that while the central government spends thousands of crores on the Kumbh Mela, it shows no interest in Gangasagar Mela. The chief minister expressed hope that just as the Kumbh Mela is recognised as a national fair, one day Gangasagar Mela will also achieve the same status. She mentioned that the state government has independently taken up several projects, including the Muriganga Bridge and other infrastructural developments.

On Tuesday, Mamata Banerjee announced the inauguration and foundation-laying of projects worth Rs 161 crore. She said several Anganwadi centers and roads in the Sagar block have been inaugurated. Additionally, 12 jetties in Gosaba, Namkhana, and Patharpratima blocks have been launched, along with four vessels operating between Chaltadunia and Pakhiralaya. Other developments include the establishment of health centers. Mamata Banerjee also provided updates on the Muriganga bridge, stating that its detailed project report has been completed. She mentioned that the construction of the bridge would take four years and cost Rs 1,500 crore. According to her, this bridge will be 5 km long and have four lanes. It will be named the Gangasagar Bridge.