Major Road Repair Initiative Launched in Kolkata Under Pathashree Scheme
The Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA) has announced a significant urban infrastructure project under the state's Pathashree scheme, focusing on repairing and upgrading roads across the metropolitan area. This initiative aims to address long-standing issues with road conditions, particularly in key localities.
Targeted Repairs for Salt Lake and Rajarhat-Gopalpur
In a specific allocation, 135 road stretches spanning 54.1 kilometers in Salt Lake and Rajarhat-Gopalpur will undergo comprehensive repairs. The estimated cost for this segment is Rs 55.8 crore, highlighting the scale of investment in urban renewal. The Bidhannagar Municipal Corporation (BMC) will oversee this work, utilizing funds from both the Pathashree scheme and councillor allocations.
This move comes after previous repair efforts fell short. Despite a Rs 25 crore repair drive launched by BMC in March last year, many roads, especially those inside residential blocks, remained in poor condition. Officials noted that patchwork carried out earlier had not fully restored the battered stretches, necessitating this more extensive intervention.
Expansive Scope Across Kolkata Metropolitan Area
The Pathashree scheme extends far beyond Salt Lake and Rajarhat. Across the Kolkata Metropolitan Area (KMA), 5,616 roads covering approximately 1,600 kilometers have been identified for repair and upgrading. This selection was made from an initial survey of 6,200 roads across 40 municipalities and urban local bodies, with finalised plans based on condition and requirement assessments.
Notably, Mahestala Municipality leads with the highest number of roads earmarked—1,451 stretches totalling 187.4 kilometers—followed by Rajpur-Sonarpur with 661 roads. Tenders have already been floated, and work has commenced in several civic areas, indicating swift implementation.
Innovative Materials and Durability Focus
Officials have emphasized a shift towards more durable materials in this repair drive. Approximately 60% of the road stretches will be repaired using concrete paver blocks, which are now preferred over traditional bituminous surfaces due to their enhanced longevity and resilience. Depending on specific needs, other materials like bitumen and standard paver blocks will also be employed, ensuring tailored solutions for different road conditions.
This comprehensive approach under the Pathashree scheme represents a major boost to Kolkata's urban infrastructure, aiming to improve connectivity, safety, and quality of life for residents. With concrete steps already in motion, the city anticipates significant enhancements in its road network in the coming months.
