Kolkata Traffic Department Approves Night Work for Metro Orange Line Extension
The Kolkata traffic department has formally issued an order granting permission for Rail Vikas Nigam Ltd (RVNL) to conduct critical construction work on the EM Bypass at Chingrighata. This approval allows RVNL to launch concrete girders during weekend nights, specifically from midnight to 5 am, starting on May 15 and again on May 22. The work aims to bridge a significant 366-meter concrete gap that has remained unfinished since February 2 last year, a delay that has hindered the extension of the Orange Line metro to Sector V.
Formal NOC for Traffic Diversion and Construction
According to an official statement, today's order serves as the formal No Objection Certificate (NOC) for implementing night traffic blocks on the EM Bypass stretch around Chingrighata. This will enable the construction of a viaduct section where metro tracks will be laid. The concrete work will link piers 317, 318, and 319, effectively closing the 366-meter gap that has stalled progress on the metro corridor.
The traffic department had initially signaled its support for this project in a letter dated March 26, addressed to RVNL, the agency responsible for implementing the 32-kilometer New Garia-Airport corridor, commonly known as the Orange Line. This recent order reiterates and formalizes that approval, ensuring that the necessary traffic management measures are in place.
Preparations and Traffic Management Plans
In anticipation of the construction, RVNL has already constructed a parallel road running alongside the Chingrighata flyover, stretching from the Chingrighata crossing to the Metropolitan crossing. This alternative route is designed to divert traffic while the busy EM Bypass crossing is temporarily shut down during the specified weekend hours. The closure will occur over two weekends to facilitate the metro work and bridge the missing link.
The traffic diversion plan is structured in two phases:
- First Phase (May 15 weekend): The western flank of the Chingrighata crossing will be closed to allow for the bridging of the piers. This flank typically carries vehicles towards Beleghata and Ultadanga.
- Second Phase (May 22 weekend): The eastern flank will be closed, ensuring minimal disruption while completing the essential construction tasks.
This strategic approach aims to balance the urgent need for metro infrastructure development with the daily commuting needs of Kolkata residents, leveraging nighttime hours to reduce impact on traffic flow.
