To address growing congestion in Central Kolkata, authorities will build a ₹900-crore underground parking facility near Shaheed Minar at Esplanade. The project, which forms part of the city’s upcoming multi-modal transport hub, will include 900 parking spaces and three strategically positioned entry and exit gates. The development aims to reduce surface traffic, provide safe pedestrian access, and streamline vehicle movement in one of the busiest commercial and transit zones in the city.
Kolkata’s Underground Parking To Reduce Congestion
According to a report by The Times of India, the underground parking facility will be accessible via three main points—Curzon Park, the state bus terminus, and Press Club Kolkata. These smart entry points ease traffic at critical junctures by allowing vehicles to disperse more smoothly.
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The consulting firm RITES, which has prepared the plan, recently presented the detailed proposal to stakeholders, including the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC), Metro Railway, and the Defence Ministry. The plan is expected to integrate seamlessly with the new Esplanade multi-modal hub, offering commuters more efficient travel and parking options.
Relocation Of Bus Terminus For Better Flow
One of the significant steps towards decongesting Esplanade involves relocating the current state-run bus terminus. As reported by The Times of India, the terminus will move to New Town and Santragachhi. This change follows a 2011 directive by the Calcutta High Court, later upheld by the Supreme Court, which mandated the relocation of the terminus to reduce traffic in the central business district.
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By shifting a major source of congestion, the authorities aim to make room for the new parking facility and allow uninterrupted construction work at the site.
Enhanced Pedestrian Safety And Urban Access
In addition to vehicle infrastructure, the plan also prioritises pedestrian access. Kolkata Police have proposed a pedestrian underpass at the junction of Jawaharlal Nehru Road and Rani Rashmoni Avenue. This underpass will support safe crossing and ease crowd movement around the Esplanade Metro and bus zones.
The ₹900-crore underground parking project is not just about convenience but also about transforming the city’s approach to urban mobility. With its mix of transit, parking, and pedestrian solutions, this project aims to make Kolkata more commuter-friendly while preserving its urban fabric.
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