Speeding costs over ₹39.5 crore in New Town, yet accidents refuse to dip

Speeding on New Town’s wide arterial roads has cost motorists nearly ₹39.5 crore in fines over the past year, yet accidents continue to claim lives. Data released by the Bidhannagar Traffic Police shows that between January and December 2025, action was taken against 2,29,000 vehicles in the Rajarhat–New Town region for overspeeding and related violations — the highest collection recorded in West Bengal.

Despite strict enforcement and hefty penalties, road safety remains a concern. In the past one and a half months alone, seven people have died in accidents across New Town and adjoining areas, while dozens have sustained serious injuries. Police investigations indicate that uncontrolled speed was the primary cause in most cases, with instances of racing between private cars and buses posing a serious threat to commuters.

To tighten surveillance, the traffic department has significantly expanded its technology-driven monitoring system. Twelve speed detection cameras have been installed at six key locations, particularly along Biswa Bangla Sarani, to measure vehicle speed round the clock. Over 40 Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras are also operational, identifying violators and issuing e-challans directly to vehicle owners.

Authorities have identified black spots around Aliah University, St. Xavier’s, Nazrul Tirtha and Eco Park, where accidents are frequent. The speed limit is fixed at 60 km/h for private vehicles and 50 km/h for buses. However, January alone saw 30,000 challans issued, translating to nearly 1,000 violations daily. Officials admit that enforcement alone cannot ensure safety unless drivers adopt responsible behaviour.

Looking ahead, HIDCO and NKDA are planning infrastructure upgrades, including new underpasses at busy intersections such as Chinar Park, St. Xavier’s and Jatragachhi. The administration hopes that a combination of stricter monitoring and improved road design will help reduce accidents and make New Town’s roads safer.