Kolkata Implements Traffic Restrictions for ICC T20 World Cup Matches at Eden Gardens
In preparation for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup matches, the Kolkata Police Commissioner has announced extensive traffic closures and parking prohibitions to ensure public safety and maintain smooth vehicular flow in the city. These measures will be enforced on specific match days between February 7 and March 4, 2026, primarily affecting areas around Eden Gardens and the Maidan region.
Key Dates and Timings for Traffic Restrictions
Traffic regulations will be activated on the following dates with varying hours:
- February 7, 14, and 16: From 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- February 9 and 19: From 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- March 1 and 4: From 4:00 PM to 2:00 AM the next day
Major Road Closures and Vehicle Diversions
During the specified hours, the following roads will be completely closed to all types of vehicles:
- Kshudiram Bose Road (Auckland Road)
- North Brooke Avenue
- Gostha Pal Sarani (Kingsway)
Additionally, cars heading towards the Calcutta High Court may be redirected to Esplanade Row West as necessary to manage congestion.
Restrictions on Goods Vehicles and Parking Zones
The movement of all goods vehicles will be either restricted or suspended in the vicinity of Eden Gardens and the Maidan area. This includes prohibitions around Victoria Memorial Hall, covering sections of AJC Bose Road, Hospital Road, and Cathedral Road.
Parking is strictly banned on both sides of several major thoroughfares, such as:
- Red Road (Indira Gandhi Sarani)
- Mayo Road (Guru Nanak Sarani)
- Dufferin Road
- Rani Rashmoni Avenue
- Old Court House Street
No parking facilities will be available for taxis or private buses in or around Eden Gardens during match days.
Bus Diversions and Terminus Changes
To accommodate the traffic adjustments, several bus routes will be diverted:
- From South Kolkata: Buses destined for BBD Bagh will be rerouted via RR Avenue or Bentinck Street.
- From North and East Kolkata: Diversions will be implemented through Ganesh Ch Avenue and Mangoe Lane.
- Howrah-bound buses: These will be redirected via St George’s Gate Road and Strand Road.
Furthermore, bus stands at Band Stand and Auckland Road will be temporarily relocated to Kiran Sankar Roy Road and Esplanade Row East on match days.
Advice for Motorists and Traffic Management
Motorists are advised to plan their routes carefully:
- From South Kolkata to BBD Bagh: Use AJC Bose Road, St George’s Gate Road, and Strand Road.
- From North and East Kolkata: Opt for BB Ganguly Street or SN Banerjee Road.
Traffic police personnel will be stationed at all major intersections to assist commuters, and the restrictions will remain in effect until crowds have dispersed after the matches.
Background on the ICC T20 World Cup
This year's ICC T20 World Cup, the 10th edition of the tournament, features 20 teams competing across eight venues. The event kicks off with matches including Pakistan vs. Netherlands in Colombo, West Indies vs. Scotland, and hosts India vs. USA at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium. The final is scheduled for March 8 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
