Kolkata’s historic markets—such as Burrabazar, Shyambazar, New Market, and Terity Bazaar—are not only commercial hubs with deep cultural roots but also focal points of the city’s traffic congestion and urban mobility challenges.
Kolkata’s Iconic Old Markets
- Burrabazar:
Originating in the 18th century, Burrabazar is among India’s largest wholesale markets, sprawling across hundreds of acres. It is a maze of dedicated areas or ‘katras’ for specific goods—spices, jewelry, hardware, textiles, and more. Thousands of hawkers line the streets and footpaths, adding to the market’s vibrancy and density1. - Shyambazar:
Also dating to the 18th century, Shyambazar is famous for its jewelry and sweet shops, and its five-point crossing is a major city landmark. The area remains a year-round shopping destination, especially before festivals13. - New Market (Sir Stuart Hogg Market):
Opened in 1874, New Market was designed as an exclusive shopping enclave for the British, later becoming a bustling retail hub for all. The Victorian Gothic architecture, over 2,000 shops, and proximity to fine dining make it a magnet for shoppers and tourists alike157. - Terity Bazaar (Old China Market):
Kolkata’s old Chinatown, Terity Bazaar, is renowned for its early morning Chinese breakfast and unique cultural blend24.
Traffic Challenges Around Old Markets
- Severe Congestion:
These markets are located in central and north Kolkata, where road space is limited (only about 6% of city area is roads, compared to much higher proportions in other metros)8. During peak hours and festivals, roads like Kalakar Street, Canning Street, and Pollock Street become choked with vehicles and pedestrians, leading to gridlock that can spill over onto major arteries like CR Avenue and MG Road68. - Encroachment and Hawkers:
Footpaths and parts of the carriageway are often occupied by hawkers and roadside shops, forcing pedestrians onto the roads and further slowing vehicle movement178. - On-Road Parking:
Vehicles parked on narrow streets reduce available road space, compounding congestion8. - Mixed Traffic:
The coexistence of hand-pulled carts, rickshaws, and motorized vehicles adds to the complexity and slows down movement, especially in Burrabazar and adjoining areas8. - Disregard for Traffic Rules:
Both drivers and pedestrians often ignore traffic regulations, leading to frequent snarls and delays8. - Special Occasions and Festivals:
During events like Dhanteras or Durga Puja, crowd surges force authorities to shut down or regulate traffic on key streets, causing ripple effects throughout central Kolkata6.
Management and Mitigation Efforts
- Barricading and Pedestrian Zones:
Police sometimes set up barricades and designate pedestrian-only zones during festivals or peak shopping hours to manage crowds and allow limited vehicle flow6. - Diversions:
Traffic is often rerouted via alternate roads, but this can lead to congestion on those routes as well6. - Calls for Infrastructure Upgrades:
Shopkeepers and planners have raised concerns about the need for better management of hawkers, improved parking solutions, and restoration of aging market structures to support both commerce and smoother traffic flow7.
Navigating the Markets Today
New Market Entrance at Lindsey Street in Kolkata, a red-brick building with its prominent red clock tower, as it appeared in 2011
If you plan to visit these historic markets:
- Use public transport (Metro, local trains) to avoid parking hassles.
- Expect heavy crowds and slow movement, especially during festivals or weekends.
- Be prepared for detours and temporary road closures.
- Early mornings or weekdays are less congested times to explore.
Kolkata’s old markets are living testaments to the city’s commercial heritage—but their popularity and central locations mean that traffic congestion is an ongoing challenge, requiring careful planning and patience for both shoppers and commuters.
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