CM to launch Ghantaghar facelift, projects today

Gorakhpur: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will be inaugurating a series of projects comprising a blend of heritage conservation and urban development, in the city on Sunday.The highlight of the CM's visit will be inauguration of the beautification work of the iconic Ghantaghar, a site associated with India's freedom struggle. He will also inaugurate a multi-level parking-cum-commercial complex and lay foundation stone for another commercial project under the heritage corridor plan. The Ghantaghar area holds immense historical significance. The site once had a large tree, on the branches of which, several freedom fighters were executed in the First War of Independence. It also witnessed a poignant moment on Dec 19, 1927, when funeral procession of martyr Ram Prasad Bismil arrived here after his execution in Gorakhpur jail and his mother delivered an emotional address. Constructed in 1930 by local philanthropists Seth Ram Khelawan and Seth Thakur Prasad, the clock tower has since stood as a symbol of the city's legacy. The recent beautification, carried out by Gorakhpur Nagar Nigam at a cost of Rs 1 crore, aims to preserve this heritage for future generations.Yogi will also inaugurate a Rs 27.26-crore multi-level parking facility at Bandhu Singh Park, named after freedom fighter Bandhu Singh. The complex includes 43 shops and parking space for 50 cars and 200 two-wheelers. It also incorporates murals depicting episodes from the freedom movement and integrates the existing Sheetla Mata temple within its structure. In a boost to commercial infrastructure, the CM will lay foundation stone for a Rs 34.43-crore commercial complex in the Pandeyhata heritage corridor area.