The Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality group, has announced a partnership with Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata, to redevelop Chotelal Ki Ghat, a historic site along the Hooghly Riverfront originally constructed in the 1870s. Supported by INTACH (Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage), the initiative aligns with the Government of India’s Namami Gange and Swachhata programs. IHCL has committed an investment of up to ₹5 crore for the project, spread over three years.
Speaking about the collaboration, Gaurav Pokhariyal, Executive Vice President, Human Resources, IHCL, said,
“IHCL, in line with its ESG+ framework of Paathya, is committed to preserving India’s cultural heritage while driving meaningful social and environmental impact. Chotelal Ki Ghat holds deep historical and cultural significance for the people of West Bengal. The project aims to restore and conserve the ghat, enhancing its aesthetic and functional value while strengthening the community’s bond with the river.”
The redevelopment will focus on restoration and conservation, complemented by beautification and landscaping of the Grade I heritage site. Local artists will be engaged for wall and boat paintings, while stall vendors, residents, and tourists will benefit from the revitalized space. The initiative seeks to transform the ghat into a vibrant community hub, celebrating its rich legacy while creating a welcoming environment for visitors.
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Shri Rathendra Raman, Chairman, Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata, highlighted the significance of the project, stating,
“This MoU with IHCL marks a significant step towards heritage-led development. With an investment of nearly ₹5 crore under CSR, staggered over three years, the renovation of the historic Chotelal Ki Ghat will not only restore its cultural essence but also enhance its appeal as a public and tourist destination. This partnership reflects our shared vision of sustainable infrastructure, community benefit, and preserving Kolkata’s iconic riverfront for generations to come.”
The project is an extension of IHCL’s ESG+ framework, Paathya, which brings together environmental stewardship, social responsibility, governance, value-chain transformation, and heritage preservation to foster long-term sustainable growth.
