Kolkata’s Historic Judges Ghat After ₹4.5 Cr Makeover 🌊

Main Article
Thu, Aug 28, 08:40 PM IST

One of Kolkata’s busiest riverfront spaces, Judges Ghat, has been given a new lease of life. After years of neglect, the historic ghat has reopened following a ₹4.5 crore restoration project led by the Prerna Foundation in partnership with the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC).

 

A Blend of Heritage and Modern Amenities

 

The renovation has transformed the ghat with:

 

  • Dedicated ritual spaces for post-cremation ceremonies
  • New changing rooms and washrooms
  • A fresh flight of stairs leading down to the Hooghly
  • A canopy providing shelter from the sun and rain

 

Once marked by corroded steps and litter, the ghat now stands out with a minimalist design that respects its historic backdrop while offering modern conveniences.

 

A Site of Faith and History

 

Judges Ghat holds deep cultural and historical significance. Built in 1774 by Sir Elijah Impey, the first Chief Justice of the Supreme Court at Fort William, the ghat once served as the landing point for British judges and officials. Over the centuries, it has become one of the city’s busiest sites for idol immersions during Durga Puja and for rituals of mourning.

 

The facelift was inaugurated by Mayor Firhad Hakim, who hailed the project as an important step in the Hooghly Riverfront Beautification initiative.

 

A Civic and Philanthropic Effort

 

The Prerna Foundation, a non-profit backed by Kolkata’s leading business families, took charge of the project. Trustees like Hemant Bangur (Gloster) and Sajjan Bhajanka (Century Ply) emphasized the importance of restoring dignity to the riverfront while making it accessible and safe for citizens.

 

Permissions from the Calcutta High Court and coordination with multiple civic bodies delayed the project, which began in 2018, but perseverance ensured its completion. Police and KMC also requested modifications to the steps to better accommodate idol immersions.

 

Looking Ahead

 

Prerna Foundation continues to play a major role in riverfront renewal. Along with Judges Ghat, the foundation maintains Nimtala and Ahiritola ghats and is entrusted with projects such as the renovation of the Hindu Burial Ground. The city is also set to get its first new crematorium on the Hooghly in decades at Dahi Ghat near Hastings, another project by the foundation.

 

❤️ The transformation of Judges Ghat is not just a facelift — it is a restoration of heritage, faith, and public dignity on Kolkata’s historic riverfront.