The proposed flyover, designed as a four-lane structure, will stretch 7 kilometres. The tender process for this project will commence shortly, marking the beginning of a substantial infrastructural endeavour. According to the planned alignment, the flyover will originate at Metropolitan Crossing, extend over Chingrighata, and then take a right turn to enter Salt Lake Bypass. It will run parallel to the Metro alignment before taking another right turn from Nicco Park, moving over the western pavement, and finally entering Sector V. The concluding segment of the flyover will traverse the wetlands, culminating at New Town.
Strategically placed entry and exit ramps, including at Sector V and Karunamoyee, will facilitate seamless traffic dispersal, especially in light of the existing East-West Metro project running from Sector V to Sealdah. This integration is expected to mitigate potential congestion, ensuring that the flyover serves as an effective conduit for traffic flow. The new flyover has been conceptualised as an alternative to the ageing Chingrighata flyover. Experts have recommended the dismantling of the Chingrighata structure, citing its deteriorated state and the impracticality of long-term repairs.
“The new flyover is a forward-looking solution to replace the Chingrighata flyover, which has outlived its utility,” commented a senior official from Nabanna. One of the critical challenges anticipated during the construction phase is traffic regulation. To address this, the KMDA plans to keep the existing Chingrighata flyover operational until the new flyover is complete, thus minimising disruption. Additionally, the KMDA is collaborating with the West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Ltd to relocate utilities at Chingrighata, ensuring a smooth construction process.
Upon completion, the new flyover is expected to significantly reduce travel time between Metropolitan Crossing and New Town, and consequently to Kolkata airport. This infrastructural enhancement is poised to deliver substantial benefits to commuters, facilitating quicker and more efficient travel. The KMDA aims to finalise and award the construction contract before the Durga Puja festival, signalling a swift move towards realising this critical urban development project. This flyover represents not just a significant financial investment but also a strategic move towards modernising Kolkata’s urban transport infrastructure, ensuring the city remains equipped to handle growing traffic demands and supports the ongoing urban expansion.
