Kolkata’s central business district has entered a new phase of transport restructuring as the Esplanade bus terminus shift formally commenced this week, clearing land for the upcoming Purple Line metro station. The relocation, executed near Curzon Park behind the existing East-West Metro infrastructure, is expected to transform Esplanade into one of India’s rare three-line metro interchanges, strengthening multimodal connectivity in the city’s historic core. Urban mobility officials confirmed that operations have begun at the newly designated state-run bus facility, though a phased transition is still underway. The site spans over 3,200 square metres and accommodates fleets operated by state transport corporations serving south Bengal, north Bengal and inter-state routes, including cross-border services. Authorities estimate that roughly 300 to 350 buses operate daily from this corridor.
The Esplanade bus terminus shift frees up a substantial parcel approximately 300 metres by 40 metres for the Purple Line station box. Once complete, the interchange will integrate the existing Blue and Green corridors with the new alignment, consolidating Esplanade’s position as the city’s most critical public transport node. Urban planners say this convergence could significantly reduce surface congestion in central Kolkata by encouraging higher public transport uptake. The redesigned bus facility incorporates structured parking bays, sheltered waiting areas, restrooms segmented by service operators, ticketing counters and food kiosks. Transport officials describe it as a more organised layout compared to the earlier decades-old stand, which had evolved organically and struggled with overcrowding. Access routing has also been rationalised to ease vehicular movement along Mayo Road and adjoining avenues.
Mobility analysts suggest the shift reflects a broader recalibration of land use in high-density city centres. By reallocating surface transport infrastructure to optimise underground rapid transit expansion, Kolkata is aligning with global trends where bus-rail integration is central to sustainable urban growth. Integrated nodes reduce travel time, cut emissions per commuter and improve last-mile connectivity essential for a city facing rising temperatures and air quality pressures. The development also carries economic implications. Esplanade sits amid retail clusters, office spaces and heritage precincts. Improved interchange capacity is expected to stabilise footfall patterns disrupted during metro construction and potentially unlock adjacent redevelopment opportunities. Real estate observers note that transit-oriented intensification around major nodes can attract mixed-use investments while reducing private vehicle dependency.
For commuters, the immediate adjustment involves altered boarding patterns and revised bus schedules during the transition period. Transport authorities are monitoring passenger flow before finalising long-term operational tweaks. As work advances on the Purple Line station, the success of this transition will depend on seamless integration between bus and metro systems. If executed effectively, the Esplanade bus terminus shift could mark a pivotal step toward a more climate-resilient and commuter-centric transport network in eastern India’s largest metropolis.
