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Time of India

State plans a multi-hall auditorium at Hwh Maidan

1 2 Kolkata/Howrah: The state plans to build a new auditorium adjacent to Sarat Sadan at Howrah Maidan, featuring a 500-seat main hall, a 200-seat cinema theatre, a conference facility and basement parking. Officials are also considering including a cafeteria for visitors. State food processing and horticulture minister Arup Roy, who is also the Central Howrah MLA, an extensive beautification plan for Howrah Maidan and the riverfront was underway. He said a watch tower was also being planned. "The river from Howrah and parts of it on the Kolkata side can also be viewed from the watch tower," he said, adding they also wanted to revamp the open-air theatre beside Sarat Sadan. An official pointed out that the open space available at Howrah Maidan was suitable for the new auditorium, aimed at facilitating public gatherings and events. The venue would serve multiple purposes, including performances, meetings and exhibitions, contributing to Howrah's cultural development, he added. Meetings have been held on the proposed auditorium's design and the revamp of the surrounding area. Chief minister Mamata Banerjee, following the metro extension to Howrah Maidan, had asked for the development of the area, following which work began with a decorated triangular island near the metro station. After one of her visits to Sarat Sadan for a meeting, Banerjee had stressed the upgrade of the area, which had set the ball rolling for the transformation. Sujoy Chakravorty, Howrah municipal corporation chairperson, however, said it was too premature to discuss the project details. Sarat Sadan now houses one hall with 944 seats, a second one with 200 seats, a seminar hall that can accommodate 55 people, an exhibition space and another hall in the basement. The complex also has a planetarium, offering three daily shows. The adjacent Sailen Manna stadium regularly hosts football matches. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Eid wishes , messages , and quotes !