West Bengal Government Fast-Tracks Digha Commercial Expansion Following Temple-Driven Economic Surge
Less than a year after the inauguration of Jagannath Dham in Digha triggered an unprecedented economic boom, the West Bengal government is now accelerating plans for substantial commercial expansion in the seaside town. The state administration is moving forward with fast-track initiatives to develop more hotels and commercial establishments, capitalizing on the remarkable economic momentum generated by the temple's opening.
Unprecedented Economic Growth Since Temple Opening
According to official sources, since April of last year when Jagannath Dham first opened to the public, Digha's local economy has generated over Rs 100 crore in just over six months. This represents nearly double the Rs 50–60 crore recorded during the previous year, marking a dramatic economic transformation for the coastal destination. Industry projections suggest this figure could potentially cross Rs 150 crore by March 2026, indicating a nearly 200% rise within a single fiscal year.
Land Parcels for Hotel and Commercial Development
The West Bengal Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation (WBHIDCO) has announced plans to e-auction two significant land parcels at mouza Paschim Gadadharpur in Digha. The larger plot measures 6.8 acres with a base price fixed at Rs 123.9 crore, while the smaller 2.2-acre parcel has a base price of Rs 41.2 crore. Both properties will be offered on a freehold basis specifically for hotel and commercial development, with e-auctions scheduled for March 18.
Officials confirmed that these parcels are strategically located approximately 400 metres from the shoreline. Successful bidders will be required to obtain Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) clearance before commencing any construction activities. Building norms, including floor area ratio and ground coverage, will strictly follow existing regulations established by the Digha Sankarpur Development Authority (DSDA) and the Land Use Development and Control Plan (LUDCP).
Flexible Development Options and Strict Timelines
Prospective bidders have been given the option to propose fragmentation of the bulk plots into smaller parcels, allowing for more flexible bidding and development formats. However, authorities have established rigorous timelines for development: construction must begin within 12 months of land allotment—with possible extensions up to 2 years—and must be completed within 5 years from the date of possession.
Temple Leadership Welcomes Commercial Push
Jagannath Dham trustee and chief priest Radharamn Das has enthusiastically welcomed the government's commercial expansion initiative. "In recent months, we've witnessed several international devotees returning to Kolkata after visiting the temple due to limited high-end accommodation options in Digha," Das explained. "World-class hotels and commercial establishments will encourage these visitors to extend their stays and fully experience what our region has to offer."
Digha's Transformation into Year-Round Destination
According to temple officials, Digha has evolved from a seasonal beach destination into a year-round pilgrimage hub attracting international visitors. Devotees—particularly followers of ISKCON—from Europe, the Americas, Africa, Australia, and Southeast Asia now routinely include Digha in their travel circuits. "January to March represents the peak season for international visitors," noted Das, highlighting the growing global recognition of Digha as a spiritual destination.
Employment Opportunities for Local Youth
The economic surge has created significant employment opportunities for local residents. Bipradas Chakraborty of the Digha Sankarpur Hoteliers Association confirmed that thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities have opened up for local youth since the temple's inauguration, providing a substantial boost to the regional economy and community development.
