Traffic in Kolkata
Kolkata, a bustling metropolis in India, faces significant traffic challenges as it continues to grow.
In 2024, the city sees a diverse range of transportation modes, with buses and cars being the most popular choices for commuters.
Average Commute Times
The average commute involves around 21 minutes on a bus and 13 minutes driving, covering a distance of approximately 17.7 km.
- Bus - Bus commuters spend about 54.7 minutes on the bus, with additional waiting and walking times, covering 15.1 km.
- Car - Car users experience a driving time of about 40.8 minutes, with minimal walking, over a distance of 15.5 km.
- Train - Train commuters spend around 43.8 minutes on the train, with additional walking and waiting, covering 27.5 km.
- Walking - Walking commutes average 15.8 minutes, with some time spent on other modes, covering 8 km.
Traffic Breakdown
Traffic Data
Overall average travel
Average when primarily using Bus
Average when primarily using Car
Average when primarily using Train
Average when primarily using Walking
More Information
Seasonal Trends
Monsoon season often exacerbates traffic congestion due to waterlogged streets.
Winter months see a slight reduction in traffic as schools and colleges have holidays.
Commuter Pain Points
Frequent traffic jams and long waiting times at bus stops are common issues.
Limited availability of parking spaces adds to the frustration of car commuters.
Best Travel Times
Early mornings before 8 AM and late evenings after 8 PM are generally less congested.
Midday travel between 11 AM and 2 PM can also be relatively smoother.
Event Impacts
Major festivals like Durga Puja significantly increase traffic, requiring additional planning for commuters.
Sporting events at Eden Gardens can lead to localized congestion, especially in the evenings.
Sustainability Efforts
Kolkata is expanding its metro network to provide a cleaner and more efficient public transport option.
Initiatives to promote electric vehicles are underway to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Ride-Sharing Impact
Ride-sharing services have eased some congestion by reducing the number of private cars on the road.
However, they also contribute to traffic during peak hours due to increased vehicle circulation.
