The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has embarked on a new initiative to pave certain city streets with concrete blocks. This strategic move aims to enhance the longevity of roads, particularly in areas prone to severe waterlogging and flooding. The initial phase of this project has been launched in Behala and Joka, two regions notorious for developing large craters after every heavy downpour.
A KMC roads department official highlighted the challenges posed by the traditional bituminous road surfaces, which tend to crack and deteriorate rapidly under the impact of water accumulation. After consulting with experts, the decision was made to experiment with concrete blocks, which are expected to provide greater durability and resilience against water damage. The civic body has already laid concrete blocks on a section of James Long Sarani and the entirety of Joka Canal Road, which connects Diamond Harbour Road with Bakrahat Road. These roads were chosen due to their susceptibility to severe waterlogging. “If this experiment proves successful, we plan to extend this initiative to other vulnerable stretches, pending approval from the civic authorities,” said the official.
Hyde Road has also been upgraded with concrete blocks. This particular road had become infamous for its poor condition during the monsoon, despite regular repairs. A senior roads department official expressed the challenges faced in maintaining these roads: “The roads in several parts of Behala and Joka are in a deplorable state. During the monsoon, we carry out temporary patch-ups and then undertake thorough repairs post-monsoon. However, by the next monsoon, these stretches develop cracks again due to accumulated water.”
The transformation brought about by the concrete block paving has been well-received by commuters. Pratik Das, a regular commuter, shared his positive experience: “I used to avoid Hyde Road due to its potholed and dusty condition. But this season, it has remained in excellent condition despite heavy vehicle load and rain. It’s now the fastest route from my office in Howrah to my home in Parnasree, making the journey comfortable.”
Residents of James Long Sarani are optimistic about this initiative. Amiya Bose, a retired government official residing on the street, expressed hope that this project would alleviate their monsoon commuting woes: “Every monsoon, James Long Sarani develops craters despite KMC’s repairs. We hope this cycle will finally be broken.” The KMC’s innovative approach to using concrete blocks could set a precedent for road maintenance in Kolkata, ensuring more durable and weather-resistant infrastructure. As the city braces for future monsoons, the success of this initiative could significantly improve the quality of life for its residents by providing safer and more reliable roadways.
