HT Correspondent
KOKRAJHAR, May 16: Member of Parliament Joyanta Basumatary on Friday inaugurated the renovated Salakati Market Shed in Kokrajhar, a project completed under the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative of NTPC Bongaigaon, Salakati.
The inauguration ceremony saw the presence of several dignitaries, including Lawrence Islary, MLA of East Kokrajhar, Arnab Maitra, Head of Project, NTPC Bongaigaon, Kabita Deka, ACS and Additional Deputy Commissioner of Kokrajhar, along with senior NTPC officials such as Paresh Mathur (AGM, TS), Onkar Nath (AGM, HR), and Sushil Kumar (AGM, CCD). Members of the Salakati Bazar Committee and a large number of local residents also attended the event.
The renovation, completed at a cost of Rs 35.89 lakh, included the construction of an 8000-litre RCC overhead water tank, repair and cleaning of 200 meters of drains, refurbishment of toilet blocks with a 500-litre PVC tank, and structural repairs of three market sheds covering 70 shops. The project also saw PCC flooring of vendor areas, installation of chequered tiles, water supply points in the fish market, and full electrification including a 250-amp LT panel board. While the initial plan was to renovate four sheds (120 shops), work was completed on three due to site constraints.
In his address, MP Joyanta Basaumatary lauded NTPC for its commitment to grassroots development. “This renovated market shed is a reflection of NTPC’s dedication to uplifting community infrastructure, directly benefitting vendors and the local population,” he stated.
MLA Lawrence Islary echoed the sentiments and emphasized the importance of joint efforts in community advancement. He urged all stakeholders to maintain and responsibly use the upgraded facilities.
NTPC’s Head of Project Arnab Maitra remarked, “NTPC believes in inclusive growth. This project not only strengthens local infrastructure but also deepens our connection with the community.”
As part of the Swachh Bharat Mission and in alignment with Swachhta Pakhwada, MP Basumatary also donated three dustbins to the Salakati Market Committee, promoting clean and sustainable market practices.
The Salakati Bazar Committee expressed deep gratitude to NTPC Bongaigaon, noting that the project fulfilled a long-standing demand and significantly improved both hygiene and economic activity in the area.
The event concluded with all participants pledging to uphold cleanliness and ensure the sustainable use of the newly renovated facilities.