Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s brainchild, the ‘Pathasathi’ project, designed to provide roadside amenities to travelers, is currently facing a severe crisis. Once envisioned as modern rest stops, many of these motels across the state have turned into dilapidated structures, triggering a fresh wave of political allegations between the ruling party and the opposition.

The Vision Behind Pathasathi: The project aimed to set up motels at every 50-kilometer interval along national and state highways. These centers were designed to offer clean toilets, safe drinking water, affordable dining, and lodging facilities, specifically keeping the safety and convenience of women travelers in mind. Millions of taxpayers’ money were invested in constructing these multi-storied buildings equipped with modern parking facilities.

Current Crisis and Political Blame Game: Today, several of these units are lying idle with rusted locks and overgrown weeds. Local residents report that furniture is being stolen and the buildings are becoming dens for anti-social activities. The Opposition (BJP and Left) has termed it a “monument of waste,” alleging that the project lacked a sustainable business model and was riddled with corruption. In response, the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) maintains that administrative hurdles and contractual issues with agencies have caused the temporary shutdown, promising a quick revival.

As the political tussle continues, the common man remains the ultimate loser, deprived of the services promised by the government.