7-km Sector V–Bantala Road to Cut Chingrighata Traffic and Boost South Kolkata Connectivity

Kolkata is set to receive a major boost in urban connectivity with the planned upgrade of a 7-km road linking Sector V with Bantala via Basanti Highway. The project is expected to significantly reduce traffic pressure on the heavily congested Chingrighata crossing and improve travel times for commuters moving between South Kolkata, Sector V, and New Town.

The road already exists as a narrow and largely unpaved stretch running from Mahisbathan, behind Sector V, through parts of the East Kolkata Wetlands, before meeting Basanti Highway at Bantala. Due to its poor condition, the route has remained unusable for regular vehicular movement for years. Recognising its strategic importance, the West Bengal government has handed over the 7-km stretch to the Nabadiganta Industrial Township Authority (NDITA) for comprehensive upgradation.

As part of the project, the road will be widened, straightened, and strengthened using concrete pavers, making it fully motorable in both directions. Once completed, motorists travelling from Sector V towards Ruby and South Kolkata will be able to bypass Chingrighata crossing and the EM Bypass entirely, cutting travel time by almost half. The upgraded link will also benefit commuters travelling to the Bantala IT hub, who currently depend on the congested EM Bypass–Basanti Highway route.

Beyond easing daily traffic congestion, the project will play a key role in developing a larger ring road around Sector V and the surrounding bheri areas. The proposed loop will begin at Chingrighata on EM Bypass, move along Salt Lake Bypass and Sector V, enter the new 7-km link at Mahisbathan, connect to Basanti Highway at Bantala, and finally rejoin EM Bypass near Parama Island, completing a full circular corridor.

Officials have confirmed that NDITA is currently preparing the project’s cost estimates, and tenders are expected to be floated soon. Once implemented, the upgraded road is expected to improve last-mile connectivity, support the growing IT and residential hubs in the region, and make daily commuting smoother for thousands of residents.

We hope this construction is finished fast, as it will give much-needed relief to the people of South Kolkata and mark another important step towards smarter, more efficient urban mobility in Kolkata.