Major Upcoming Festivals in Kolkata and Their Traffic Impact (2025)
Kolkata’s vibrant festival calendar brings the city alive with color, music, and community celebrations—but also leads to significant traffic disruptions, diversions, and congestion. Here’s a guide to the major upcoming festivals in 2025 and what commuters should expect on the roads.
Key Festivals & Events (2025) and Their Traffic Impact
| Festival/Event | Dates | Locations & Highlights | Expected Traffic Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF) | Jan 15–22 | Nandan, city cinemas | Heavy traffic in central Kolkata, parking crunch near venues2 |
| Kolkata International Book Fair | Jan 31–Feb 11 | Central Park, Salt Lake | Congestion in Salt Lake, diversions near Central Park2 |
| Saraswati Puja | Feb 2 | Schools, colleges, pandals citywide | Increased local traffic, especially near educational hubs15 |
| Dover Lane Music Conference | Jan 22–25 | Nazrul Mancha | Traffic build-up in South Kolkata evenings2 |
| Dol Utsav (Holi) | Mar 14 | Park Street, Kumartuli, Rabindra Sarobar | Color processions, slow traffic in festive hotspots2 |
| Id-ul-Fitr | Mar 31 | Red Road, city mosques | Goods vehicle ban 4am–12pm, Red Road closed, major diversions, tram suspensions, bus rerouting6 |
| Basanti Durga Puja | Apr 3–6 | Citywide | Localized congestion, especially at major pandals15 |
| Poila Boishakh (Bengali New Year) | Apr 14–15 | Gariahat, New Market, Rabindra Sadan | Shopping rush, traffic jams near markets and cultural venues25 |
| Rabindra Jayanti | May 7 | Jorasanko Thakur Bari, Rabindra Sadan | Moderate congestion, especially around event venues27 |
| Jamai Shoshti | Jun 1 | Family gatherings citywide | Mild, localized traffic increases15 |
| Durga Puja | Oct 28–Nov 2 | Citywide, especially North & South Kolkata | Massive citywide gridlock, extensive traffic diversions, pedestrian-only zones, parking bans near pandals15 |
| Lakshmi Puja | Oct 6 | Homes, localities | Localized slowdowns in residential areas15 |
| Kali Puja/Diwali | Oct 20 | Citywide, major temples | Evening congestion, firecracker-related slowdowns15 |
Traffic Management Measures During Major Festivals
- Road Closures & Diversions:
During major festivals like Durga Puja and Id-ul-Fitr, key roads (e.g., Red Road, parts of Esplanade, North & South Kolkata arteries) are closed or made one-way. Traffic police issue detailed diversion plans, and pedestrian-only zones are enforced near popular pandals and prayer grounds6. - Goods Vehicle Restrictions:
On festival days such as Id-ul-Fitr, movement of goods vehicles is restricted during morning hours to ease congestion and ensure public safety6. - Public Transport Adjustments:
Bus routes are often diverted, tram services suspended or rerouted, and extra services added for Metro and buses to accommodate the surge in commuters6. - Parking Bans:
Temporary parking bans are imposed near festival venues, markets, and pandals. Expect towing and fines for violations. - Increased Police Presence:
Additional traffic police and volunteers are deployed to manage crowds, direct vehicles, and assist pedestrians.
Tips for Commuters During Festivals
- Use Public Transport: Metro, local trains, and official shuttle services are the best options during major festivals.
- Plan Ahead: Check Kolkata Traffic Police notifications and social media for real-time updates on diversions and closures.
- Avoid Driving Near Major Venues: If possible, park at a distance and walk or use rickshaws to reach festival hotspots.
- Allow Extra Time: Expect significant delays, especially during evenings and weekends.
- Stay Updated: Listen to local radio, follow news portals, and use navigation apps with live traffic features.
Kolkata’s festivals are a spectacular experience, but they do come with substantial traffic challenges. Smart planning and awareness of official advisories will help you enjoy the celebrations while minimizing travel hassles.
Leave a Reply