Kolkata Traffic Advisory: Vidyasagar Setu Closure on Sunday
Kolkata Police has issued a crucial traffic advisory for Sunday, January 18. The Vidyasagar Setu, also known as the Second Hooghly Bridge, will remain completely closed for eight hours. This closure will affect vehicular movement from 5:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
Reason for the Closure
Authorities are closing the bridge for essential repair and rehabilitation work. The work includes replacement of stay cables, holding-down cables, and bearings. These repairs are necessary for maintaining the structural integrity of this important cable-stayed bridge.
Kolkata Police stated clearly: "During replacement of stay and down cables and bearings of 2nd Hooghly Bridge, movement of all types of vehicles shall be restricted to ply along Vidyasagar Setu and its ramps from 05:00 a.m. to 01:00 p.m. on 18/01/2026 (Sunday)."
Alternate Routes for Commuters
Police have designated specific alternate routes for different directions of traffic:
- West-bound vehicles from AJC Bose Road: These vehicles will divert from Turf View via at grade road towards Hastings Crossing. From there, they can take St. Georges Gate Road to Strand Road and then Howrah Bridge. Alternatively, they can turn right from Hastings Crossing for K.P. Road.
- West-bound vehicles from K.P. Road: These vehicles will divert from 11 Furlong Gate towards Hastings Crossing. They should then take St. Georges Gate Road to Strand Road and Howrah Bridge.
- East-bound vehicles from CGR Road: These vehicles will divert from Hastings Crossing, taking a left turn to access St. Georges Gate Road. They should then follow Strand Road to Howrah Bridge.
- Vehicles from K.P. Road via Y-Point: All vehicles using the ramp at Y-Point near Ghora Pass will divert from Y-Point on K.P. Road towards 11 Furlong Gate. They should then take K.P. Road to Red Road for Howrah Bridge.
Traffic police may also divert vehicles through other arterial roads as needed during the closure period.
About Vidyasagar Setu
Vidyasagar Setu spans the Hooghly River in West Bengal. It stands as one of India's longest cable-stayed bridges. The bridge carries the Kona Expressway (NH 117) and connects Howrah with Kolkata.
Authorities originally built this bridge to ease congestion on the Howrah Bridge, which lies approximately 8 kilometers away. The Second Hooghly Bridge has served as a vital transportation link since its construction.
Commuters should plan their journeys carefully on Sunday morning. They should allow extra travel time and follow police instructions. The closure affects all types of vehicles, including cars, buses, and trucks.
This temporary disruption aims to ensure long-term safety and functionality of the important bridge structure. Regular maintenance helps prevent more extensive closures in the future.
