The much neglected Kestopur canal that flows between Salt Lake and VIP Road is all set to get a makeover. The state irrigation department is taking up a beautification project for the canal and will float tenders very soon to invite private players to take up the work.

The government wants to beautify city canals. Earlier, the irrigation department had started desiltation work on the Beliaghata canal. During the Left Front rule, an initiative was taken to run ferry service on the canal, but the plan fell flat on its face.

State irrigation minister Rajib Banerjee said that the irrigation department will start off with the desiltation work of the canal from February 20 after which beautification work will be taken up. "The plan is to renovate both the sides of the canal. A joggers' park, sidewalks, decorated gardens, will be included. Tenders for this will be floated soon for private companies to take up the work. The entire stretch of Kestopur canal till Bhangarghata and Dum Dum cantonment will be desilted," Banerjee said, adding that a cost of about Rs 24 crore has been pegged for the makeover project.

"We are also contemplating on putting up a 'Gateway to Kolkata' sign on the canal," he said.

The minister said that earlier, a feasibility study was conducted by RITES. The proposal was discussed by a high power committee headed by the chief secretary. The plan was also discussed with the PWD and urban development authorities.