Kolkata’s public transport network is preparing for a major overhaul as the state government begins route rationalisation following reports of a dip in bus ridership after the recent Metro expansion. Officials confirmed that several overlapping bus routes are under review to avoid redundancy and ensure better deployment of resources while balancing commuter needs.
The newly inaugurated East-West Metro line between Howrah Maidan and Sector V has significantly altered travel patterns across the city. Bus operators on routes such as Howrah–Sector V, Howrah–Ultadanga and New Garia–Beleghata have recorded a 20 to 30 per cent drop in passengers within weeks of the Metro launch. Transport authorities believe that reducing duplication will not only ease traffic congestion but also improve fuel efficiency and operational sustainability. Senior officials said the state was assessing commuter flow and demand before taking decisions on which routes to rationalise. In areas where the number of buses is more than adequate, services may be withdrawn and redeployed to underserved stretches. Discussions are also underway to expand feeder bus and auto services that can connect outlying neighbourhoods to Metro stations, enabling integrated, last-mile connectivity for passengers.
Transport experts argue that rationalisation is a necessary step in building a sustainable mobility ecosystem. They point out that buses competing with Metro trains on the same corridors is not an efficient use of resources. Instead, realigning services to act as feeders could create a more eco-friendly and commuter-centric system while reducing carbon emissions from overlapping traffic. However, private bus operators remain cautious. Some believe the drop in ridership is temporary, driven largely by curiosity about the new Metro line. They expect regular commuters to return once the novelty wears off. Yet, government officials suggest that Kolkata cannot afford to wait. Rationalisation, they say, is crucial to shaping a modern, climate-conscious transport grid.
Meanwhile, the state transport department is preparing to launch special Puja bus services in anticipation of festive crowds. Additional buses will be deployed at major transit hubs including Howrah, Sealdah and Esplanade, with premium AC services covering popular Durga Puja pandals across the city. Special night services are also being readied to ensure devotees can travel safely during late hours. The balancing act between Metro expansion and bus operations could define Kolkata’s public transport future. If executed strategically, route rationalisation could reduce fuel wastage, ease congestion, and support the city’s push towards sustainable mobility. But officials acknowledge the challenge lies in ensuring commuters do not feel underserved in areas not covered by the Metro.
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