The Trinamul Congress-run Balurghat municipality has decided to erect a watchtower that can accommodate 100 persons on the bank of the Atreyee, a prominent river which flows through the town and meanders into Bangladesh.

“The board of councillors at the civic body has already made a decision in this regard. A detailed project report will be prepared and tenders will be invited soon. The idea is to provide an opportunity for residents and visitors to have a better view of the river and its surroundings. The watchtower will be run by the civic body and will be a source of revenue for us,” said Ashok Kumar Mitra, the civic chairman.

In Balurghat, the headquarters of South Dinajpur district, there is a longstanding demand from the residents to create infrastructure on the bank of the Atreyee where they can entertain themselves, catch a glimpse of the river and the surroundings and also view immersions of idols during the festive season.

“The plan is to create an elevated platform where around 100 persons can sit. People can book the tower for social occasions and get-togethers. We believe it will be a major attraction in the town and people will have the option to congregate for entertainment on the river bank where there will be appropriate amenities,” said a source in the civic body.

Balurghat residents said there were restaurants, banquets and community halls in the town for social gatherings.

“But there is no open-air facility or a similar place where one can host a party. If the civic body goes ahead with the plan, a longstanding demand of ours would be fulfilled. We can book the place for occasions like wedding anniversaries and birthdays,” said Tania Singha, a college student.