Kolkata: Least Congested, Yet Most Polluted Metro

Kolkata stands out as India's least congested metropolitan city, according to a recent study. Despite this distinction, the city contends with the highest exposure to vehicular air pollution among major Indian metros. This unique situation is largely due to a resilient public transport system that continues to serve a significant portion of daily commuters, keeping the congestion index remarkably low.

However, a troubling contradiction exists as Kolkata also records the highest levels of vehicular air pollution. Factors contributing to this include heavy reliance on road-based transport, limited road infrastructure, and extensive on-street parking, rather than just vehicle numbers. Vehicle ownership has seen a dramatic surge, with four-wheeler registrations increasing fivefold and two-wheelers over twelvefold between 2016 and 2024.

To address these intertwined issues of pollution and potential future congestion, experts are calling for the urgent revitalization of Kolkata's historic tram network. This zero-emission transport, alongside electric buses and improved infrastructure for walking and cycling, is seen as a crucial step. Further recommendations include managing personal vehicle use through measures like congestion pricing and enhanced parking management.