In a significant move aimed at reducing traffic congestion in north-east Kolkata, the Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA) has commenced construction of a new two-way Bailey bridge linking VIP Road, Salt Lake and the E M Bypass corridor.
The bridge, approximately 46 metres long and 7.5 metres wide, is designed to carry heavy loads and offers a much-needed alternative route for traffic currently funnelled via the congested Ultadanga flyover.
Project Overview & Key Details
Construction began on 24 October 2025, under contract with Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited (GRSE).
The cost of the project is around ₹6 crore, funded by the state urban development department.
The design: structural steel super-structure, concrete foundation; two lanes (two-way traffic) unlike the earlier one-way Bailey bridge nearby.
Location: across the Kestopur (Kesthupur) canal between VIP Road and Salt Lake’s AA block/Dakshindari area.
Expected to open by the end of 2025, possibly by December.
Why This Bridge Matters
The current routes from Salt Lake or VIP Road to EM Bypass or the airport face frequent snarls at Ultadanga and Hudco crossings. This bridge will provide a more direct link.
The existing Bailey bridge near Lake Town is one-way only; this new bridge being two-way provides greater flexibility.
Expected to significantly ease morning and evening peak hour traffic, thereby improving commute times for route users.
Enhances connectivity between VIP Road, Salt Lake, Sector V, and EM Bypass — key zones for offices and residential areas.
Timeline Snapshot
| Milestone | Detail |
|---|---|
| Contract awarded & design approved | Prior to October 2025 kmda.wb.gov.in |
| Construction start | 24 October 2025 The Indian Express+1 |
| Estimated completion/opening | By end of December 2025 Telegraph India+1 |
What To Expect When Opened
Two-way traffic flow between VIP Road and Salt Lake, enabling vehicles from both directions.
New crossover point on VIP Road proposed for vehicles from Salt Lake heading towards the airport flank. The final decision is pending police approval.
Better distribution of traffic load away from Ultadanga flyover and other chokepoints.
Improved access to Sector V and EM Bypass for commuters from Baguihati / Teghoria / Dakshindari areas.
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FAQs
Q1: When will the new Bailey bridge open to the public?
A: According to KMDA officials, the bridge is expected to be completed and open by the end of 2025, likely December.
Q2: How wide and long is the bridge, and what traffic will it carry?
A: The bridge spans approximately 46 metres in length and 7.5 metres in width, designed to carry heavy loads and accommodate two-way traffic.
Q3: Where exactly is the bridge located?
A: It will be built across the canal between VIP Road and Salt Lake’s AA Block / Dakshindari area, connecting the two zones.
Q4: Who is constructing the bridge and how is it funded?
A: The contractor is GRSE, and the project is funded by the state urban development department (approx. ₹6 crore).
Q5: How will this bridge help reduce traffic congestion?
A: By providing an alternate route for vehicles between VIP Road, Salt Lake and EM Bypass, the bridge will bypass the congested Ultadanga flyover and Hudco crossings, improving commute times.
Published on : 11TH November
Published by : SARANYA
Source Credit ; Express Web Desk
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