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The Calcutta High Court has directed Darjeeling municipality to prohibit unauthorized construction on Mall Road while hearing a case against alleged illegal development. The municipality defended its actions, stating that the current work is part of a Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA)-funded beautification project, including road expansion and hawker relocation. However, the petitioner presented an RTI response suggesting GTA was constructing a structure near Sunflower Hotel. The court has now ordered GTA's inclusion in the case and requested a detailed project report. The final ruling will determine if the redevelopment aligns with legal requirements.Read more
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Darjeeling's Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) has leased out nine tourism properties in the Sandakphu-Phalat area to private parties due to their failure to generate sufficient revenue. These properties, mostly lodges and trekking huts along the Himalayan trail, were found to be in need of repairs estimated at Rs 6.72 crore. Sandakphu, the highest point in Bengal at 12,000 feet, is renowned for its trekking trail. The leasing decision has sparked controversy, with some alleging favouritism in property selection. GTA member Noran Sherpa defended the process, noting that a committee assessed properties' financial health before leasing them.Read more
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