Kolkata cops, metro work in tandem for seamless traffic flow

KOLKATA: Metro Railway is tying up with Kolkata Police to boost last-mile connectivity around the about-to-be commissioned East-West Metro stations. It will share passenger footfall with police so that traffic circulation can be planned accordingly.
A senior traffic department official said, “The idea is to avoid congestion around Metro stations and allow more Kolkatans access the new Metro.” The cops have requested Metro Railway to keep at least two ticket counters open at each station during office hours.

Metro sources said data relating to daily footfall will, in fact, be computed every day and put up on display boards at the Metro stations. The first phase is all set for commercial operations from Friday and both — the Metro authorities and the local administration — are determined to make the most of the newest addition to the transportation system. While new auto routes are being planned, the state transport department is mulling introducing a minibus route right next to Sector V station.
Other modes of commute, like e-rickshaws, are being mulled for stations in Salt Lake, where retro-fitted battery-operated rickshaws are already an effective mode of commute. “We may try to issue more rickshaw licences so that people can access stations like Karunamoyee, Central Park and City Centre. The authorities are also planning cycle bays,” said a transport department official.
Also, zebra crossings will come up in front of the Metro stations and traffic volunteers will be deployed at crossings near the Metro stations.