West Bengal Government to Construct 5,019 km of Urban Roads Under Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority

The West Bengal government has approved an ambitious urban infrastructure plan to construct 5,019 kilometers of urban roads across the state under the Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA). This large-scale initiative is part of a broader effort to improve urban connectivity, reduce congestion, boost economic growth and enhance the quality of life for residents Greater Kolkata region and other metropolitan areas.

The project, with an estimated investment of nearly ₹8,487 crore, aims to strengthen the urban road network by developing new roads, widening existing corridors, building flyovers and improving critical intersections. By systematically upgrading transportation infrastructure, the state intends to ensure smoother movement of traffic, reduce travel times and support economic activities that rely heavily on efficient urban mobility.

A key focus of the plan is to address persistent issues such as traffic bottlenecks, poor road conditions and inadequate connectivity between major commercial, residential and industrial zones. With rapid urbanization in and around Kolkata, the existing road network has struggled to keep pace with growing vehicular traffic and population density. The new road infrastructure is expected to alleviate these pressures, making daily commuting more convenient for millions of people.

The KMDA will oversee the implementation of the project in phases, coordinating with municipal bodies and other state departments to ensure that construction adheres to quality, safety and environmental standards. The plan includes the development of arterial routes that link peripheral urban areas with central business districts, railway stations, bus terminals and key industrial hubs. Enhanced connectivity is also expected to support the expansion of public transport services such as buses and metro rail, by improving last-mile accessibility for commuters.

In addition to road construction, the project will incorporate pedestrian pathways, dedicated bicycle lanes and better drainage systems to improve overall urban infrastructure. Such complementary facilities will not only enhance safety.