EM Bypass to face mega traffic block for 60 hours twice due to Metro Work | Check Schedule & alternate routes

The Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) is set to undertake critical segment launching work for the Orange Line Metro at the busy Chingrighata crossing, necessitating two massive 60-hour traffic blocks. According to the Kolkata Police notification issued on May 13, 2026, the first phase of the block will commence at 8:00 PM on Friday, May 15, and continue until 8:00 AM on Monday, May 18. During this period, the Western flank of the E.M. Bypass will be closed to facilitate work between Pier 317 and Pier 318, directly impacting north-bound commuters heading towards Salt Lake and the Airport.

The second phase of the mega block is scheduled for the following weekend, starting from 8:00 PM on Friday, May 22, to 8:00 AM on Monday, May 25. This phase will focus on the Eastern flank of the E.M. Bypass for work between Pier 318 and Pier 319, which will primarily affect south-bound traffic. To manage the congestion, the Kolkata Police has released a comprehensive diversion plan. North-bound vehicles will be diverted via a new road in front of the NX Hotel, while vehicles coming from Salt Lake and New Town will be restricted to left turns only, with all right turns prohibited at the crossing.

Strict restrictions have also been placed on heavy goods vehicles to prevent gridlocks. Trucks coming from the Hudco and Kankurgachi sides will be diverted or restricted during the 60-hour windows. The police have urged citizens to plan their journeys in advance and utilize alternative routes to avoid the Chingrighata bottleneck. The segment launching is a vital step in completing the metro viaduct over one of the city's most congested intersections, and the weekend timing has been chosen to minimize disruption to weekday office traffic.