Kolkata's lifeline bridge Vidyasagar Setu to temporarily halt goods vehicle for 8 months

The Second Hooghly Bridge, also known as Vidyasagar Setu, will be temporarily closed for an extensive renovation and security overhaul. Starting from November 1, the lifeline bridge of Kolkata will remain inaccessible to goods vehicles for a duration of 8 months. This means that goods vehicles traveling to or from Kolkata to districts outside the city will have to take alternative routes.

The announcement was made by the Hooghly River Bridge Construction (HRPC) Authority on behalf of Kolkata Police, citing the need for repairs, cable work, and various renovations. During this period, the traffic flow in Kolkata and its suburbs will be managed by diverting vehicles to different routes, such as AGC Bose Road, Bhupen Bose Avenue, and Tala Bridge BT Road.

The closure of the Second Hooghly Bridge is a significant step to ensure the safety and integrity of the bridge, as well as to facilitate the required renovations. Goods vehicles traveling to and from the port area will also be redirected during this period. Additionally, non-good carrier vehicles may also be diverted from the main roads as necessary for traffic management and to accommodate the increased flow through alternative routes. The closure announcement is expected to impact transportation and logistics within and around Kolkata.