HBI Staff | Hyderabad 
In a significant development for West Bengal’s tourism industry, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has intervened to halt a demolition order targeting 140 hotels in Mandarmani for alleged coastal regulation violations. The move follows the East Midnapore District Magistrate’s directive to comply with a 2022 National Green Tribunal (NGT) ruling, sparking concerns among hoteliers and the local community.
The Mandarmani Hoteliers’ Association, representing a sector valued at ₹1,000 crore, expressed relief at the Chief Minister’s decision. “Her intervention safeguards the livelihoods of thousands dependent on tourism here,” said Mamrez Ali, President of the Association.
Mandarmani, a weekend getaway near Kolkata, has seen rapid tourism growth over the past three decades. However, environmental concerns have cast a shadow, with the NGT citing harm to the coastal and marine ecology due to unauthorized constructions.
While the demolition is paused, stakeholders await a Calcutta High Court verdict on the matter. The Chief Minister’s stance, likely influenced by upcoming 2026 Assembly polls, reflects a balancing act between economic interests and environmental compliance.
Source: The Telegraph
