Diwali Shopping Frenzy Clogs Central Kolkata, Disrupts Commute

In the lead-up to Diwali on October 18, 2025, a significant portion of central Kolkata, including the Burrabazar-Posta area, Girish Park, Maniktala, and parts of Bhowanipore, experienced heavy congestion as shops spilled out onto the streets to observe Dhanteras. The scene improved dramatically in the evening, especially in south Kolkata, which does not have major markets nearby.

To accommodate the Diwali market crowds, the police shut down Kalakar Street and regulated traffic on key roads like Canning Street, Pollock Street, and Rabindra Sarani. However, this led to increased pressure on nearby roads, such as CR Avenue, where a cave-in near Islamia Hospital further compounded the problem. The traffic jams were not limited to the trading hubs, as the Sealdah-Amherst Street area also saw disruptions due to pandals and barricades encroaching on the roads.

The heavy traffic caused delays and longer commute times, with some auto drivers taking advantage of the situation by charging higher fares. Commuters reported spending up to 45 minutes to travel from Kankurgachhi to Vivekananda Road and over 40 minutes to cross Brabourne Road. The traffic congestion was a stark contrast to the more evenly spread shopping during the Durga Puja festival, and the authorities have acknowledged the need to be better prepared for the Diwali rush.