West Bengal has begun work on a major bridge project over the Muriganga river to improve connectivity between Sagar Island and the mainland. The 5-km, four-lane bridge will link Lot 8 in Kakdwip with Kachuberia on Sagar Island. The project is estimated to cost ₹1,670 crore and is expected to take two to three years to complete.
Importance of Sagar Island
Sagar Island is the largest island in the Sundarbans archipelago. It is best known for the annual Gangasagar Mela, held during Makar Sankranti. Lakhs of pilgrims visit the island every year to take a holy dip at the confluence believed to be near Kapil Muni Temple.
Expected Benefits of the Bridge
- The bridge is expected to reduce travel difficulty for pilgrims visiting Gangasagar Mela.
- It may improve trade, tourism, and local commerce in the Sundarbans region.
- It will provide a more reliable link between the island and the mainland.
- The project has been awarded to Larsen & Toubro.
State Infrastructure in South 24 Parganas
The state government said several bridges have been built in South 24 Parganas since 2011. It also brought into light improved access to Bakkhali through bridges over the Hatania-Dowania rivers. Electricity has reached Sagar Island, and the Sundarbans Police District was created during the same period.
Gangasagar Mela and Public Support
The state government has also announced compensation for the family of any common person or government employee who dies during the fair. It said earlier pilgrims had to pay tax to visit Gangasagar, but this was withdrawn after the change in government. The bridge is seen as a key step in strengthening access to one of eastern India’s most important pilgrimage sites.
Last Modified: April 25, 2026