How to use Google Maps and local apps for live updates

Getting real-time traffic and public transport updates is essential for smooth commuting in Kolkata. Here’s a step-by-step guide on using Google Maps and local apps to stay ahead of traffic jams, diversions, and delays.

Using Google Maps for Live Traffic Updates

• Real-Time Traffic Data:
  Google Maps now integrates live traffic information directly from Kolkata Police and its partner Lepton Software. This ensures updates on congestion, road closures, and incidents are reflected on the map within 5–7 minutes, with a maximum delay of 15–20 minutes23.
• How to Use:
  1. Open Google Maps on your phone or desktop.
  2. Enter your destination and start navigation.
  3. Tap the “Layers” icon and select “Traffic” to view real-time congestion (color-coded: green for smooth, orange/red for slow or heavy).
  4. Google Maps will automatically suggest alternative routes if your usual path is blocked or congested45.
  5. For major events, rallies, or processions, Google Maps will display official road closures and diversions as soon as they are reported by Kolkata Police23.
• Additional Features:
  • See estimated travel times, delays, and incidents like accidents or construction.
  • Receive notifications about sudden changes on your route.
  • Use the app’s voice-guided navigation for hands-free updates.

Local Apps for Kolkata Commuters

1. Pathadisha

• What It Does: Tracks buses, trams, and ferries in real time, showing expected arrival times (ETA), live locations, crowd info, and journey planning tools9.
• How to Use:
  • Download the Pathadisha app on Android.
  • Enter your route or bus number to see live updates, ETAs, and crowd levels.
  • Set alerts for your preferred routes and stops.

2. Kolkata Bus-o-pedia

• What It Does: Lets users search for bus routes, track buses in real time, and check all possible routes between two points in Kolkata and nearby districts6.
• How to Use:
  • Download the app from the Play Store or visit the website.
  • Use the “search your bus route” feature to find options and live locations.

3. Kolkata Travel Route Fare Map

• What It Does: Offers live tracking and status of local trains, metro, buses, and ferries, along with fare details and route maps8.
• How to Use:
  • Download the app from the Play Store.
  • Select your mode of transport and view live updates, schedules, and fares.

4. Waze

• What It Does: Community-driven app for live traffic, accident, and hazard reporting. Users can submit real-time updates, helping others avoid delays10.
• How to Use:
  • Download Waze and enter your destination.
  • Follow suggested routes and receive alerts about incidents ahead.

Tips for Efficient Use

• Stay Updated: Follow Kolkata Police’s Twitter and Facebook pages for instant traffic advisories, which are now quickly reflected on Google Maps23.
• Plan Ahead: Before leaving, check your route on Google Maps or local apps for any reported incidents or diversions.
• Enable Notifications: Allow app notifications for immediate alerts about route changes or disruptions.
• Combine Apps: Use both Google Maps for overall traffic and local apps for specific bus/train/ferry updates for the most reliable information.

By leveraging Google Maps and Kolkata’s local transport apps, you can navigate the city smarter, avoid unnecessary delays, and make your daily commute much more predictable and stress-free.