Why is Kolkata the least congested city in India?

Kolkata is the least congested city due to its dependable public transport system, which absorbs a significant share of daily travel demand, resulting in a low congestion index.

What environmental issue does Kolkata face despite low congestion?

Despite low congestion, Kolkata faces the highest exposure to vehicular air pollution among India's major cities.

What solutions are proposed for Kolkata's pollution and traffic issues?

Proposed solutions include reviving the tram network, introducing electric buses, expanding walking and cycling infrastructure, and implementing parking management and congestion charges.

Home / Environment / Kolkata: Least Congested, Yet Most Polluted Metro

Kolkata: Least Congested, Yet Most Polluted Metro

10 Feb

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Summary

Kolkata leads metros in lowest congestion index.
City faces highest vehicular air pollution exposure.
Urgent tram revival proposed to curb pollution and traffic.

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.