West Bengal Secretariat Returns to Writers’ Buildings, Sparking Hope for Small Traders’ Business Revival

The West Bengal government’s decision to relocate the State Secretariat back to Writers’ Buildings has instilled optimism among small traders in Kolkata’s B.B.D. Bagh area, who have faced economic hardships since the initial move to Nabanna in 2013. Business owners, including tea stall operators and fruit vendors, expect a revival in customer traffic, which had drastically declined over the last decade. Many local businesses that once thrived on the influx of government employees now share concerns over their viability.

The closure and downsizing of small businesses in the B.B.D. Bagh area underscore the significant impact the shift of administrative activities had on local commerce. Traders recall the bustling environment fostered by thousands of daily visitors to Writers’ Buildings, which contributed to their livelihoods. In contrast, traders now report diminished foot traffic, leading to layoffs and some shops shutting down permanently.