Mamata Slams Centre Over Gangasagar Mela Neglect; Announces New Bridge Construction

• CM Mamata Banerjee greeted millions of pilgrims at the Gangasagar Mela, highlighting state government efforts.
• She criticized the Centre for its 'severe neglect and inattention' towards the significant fair.
• Mamata announced the state is fully funding a 5 km, four-lane 'Gangasagar Bridge' over the Muriganga River at a cost of 1700 crore rupees.
• The new bridge, for which the foundation stone was laid on January 5, will significantly improve pilgrim access and benefit Sagar Island locals and tourism.
• The state government has implemented extensive arrangements for pilgrims, including abolishing the 'pilgrim tax' and providing infrastructure, medical, and security facilities.

Why It Matters: Mamata Banerjee criticized the Centre for neglecting Gangasagar Mela while announcing a state-funded bridge.