Major Bridge Closure Disrupts Kolkata Traffic
Kolkata faces significant transportation challenges this Sunday as authorities implement a full 16-hour closure of the vital Vidyasagar Setu, commonly known as the Second Hooghly Bridge. The shutdown, scheduled from 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on November 16, is necessary for essential safety repairs that cannot be postponed.
Kolkata Police officials confirmed the extensive closure affects all vehicular traffic crossing the important river connector. Engineering teams will use this window to replace critical safety components including stay cables, holding-down cables, and bearing sets as part of a comprehensive bridge maintenance program.
Traffic Diversions and Expected Congestion
Commuters relying on Vidyasagar Setu for their Sunday travel are urged to reconsider their plans and explore alternative routes. Police have issued detailed diversion plans to manage the expected traffic chaos:
West-bound traffic originating from AJC Bose Road (Zeerut Island), J&N Island, and G.R. Road in Khidderpore will be redirected along St. George's Gate Road, Strand Road, and Howrah Bridge. Some vehicles may also use K.P. Road as an alternative route.
East-bound traffic from Howrah, including vehicles from Road No. 1, Howrah Bridge approach, and the Y-Point near Ghusuri, will be routed via K.P. Road and Red Road to access Howrah Bridge.
Authorities warn that heavy congestion is anticipated, particularly around Howrah Bridge and the Strand Road corridors. Traffic management teams will be deployed at strategic points to monitor the situation, but significant delays are unavoidable.
Multiple Events Compound Traffic Woes
The bridge closure coincides with several major events in the city, potentially exacerbating transportation challenges. Day 3 of the India versus South Africa Test match at Eden Gardens begins at 9:30 a.m., with cricket spectators adding to the vehicular volume.
Additionally, the Kolkata Police Friendship Cup 2025 women's final takes place at Bodyguard Lines Ground at 3:00 p.m. The event will feature German football legend Lothar Matthäus and Police Commissioner Manoj Verma, likely drawing substantial crowds.
For those considering public transportation, Kolkata Metro's Green Line (Howrah Maidan-Esplanade) will operate with adjusted timings. The first train departs at 2:15 p.m. and the last service runs at 9:40 p.m. Commuters are advised to verify schedules before traveling.
Cultural Event Proceeds Amid Transportation Challenges
Despite the transportation disruptions, the People's Film Collective will host its monthly film screening and discussion at Sujata Sadan in Hazra from 6:00 p.m. The program features the short film Noor Islam, a 20-minute Bengali and Sylheti documentary with English subtitles that explores the human impact of the NRC process in Assam.
Following the screening, a panel discussion on "SIR & the Questions of Equal Citizenship and Universal Adult Suffrage" will feature prominent speakers including human rights activists Sujato Bhadra and Kirity Roy, along with migration scholar Samata Biswas.
Authorities emphasize that the bridge closure, while inconvenient, is essential for public safety and the structure's long-term integrity. Commuters are strongly encouraged to leave earlier than usual, utilize alternative bridges where possible, and prepare for extended travel times throughout the day.
