Kolkata put under tight traffic curbs for PM Modi’s visit: 16-hour road restrictions, limited parking zones, citywide diversions
The Statesman | 9 May 2026
The city of Kolkata will witness extensive traffic restrictions and diversions on May 9 as Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be arriving to attend the oath-taking ceremony of the newly formed West Bengal government at Brigade Parade Ground, marking his first visit after the BJP’s landmark victory in the state Assembly elections.
In a detailed notification issued on Friday, Kolkata Police announced a series of regulatory measures to ensure security and smooth movement during the high-profile event, even as authorities warned of significant disruptions across key arterial routes through the day.
Vehicular traffic will be regulated on several critical stretches, including Esplanade Ramp, K.P. Road, Hospital Road, Lovers Lane, Casuarina Avenue and Queensway. Police said restrictions will be enforced “as and when necessary” depending on the movement of the Prime Minister and associated convoys.
In one of the most extensive measures, the entry and movement of goods vehicles within Kolkata Police jurisdiction will remain restricted from 4:00 am to 8:00 pm on May 9. Essential carriers transporting LPG cylinders, CNG, petroleum products, oxygen, vegetables, medicines, fruits, fish and milk have been exempted from the ban.
Parking will be strictly prohibited along multiple roads surrounding the Brigade Parade Ground, particularly near Victoria Memorial Hall. These include stretches of AJC Bose Road between Hastings Crossing and Cathedral Road, Khidderpore Road, Hospital Road, Queensway, Cathedral Road, Casuarina Avenue and Lovers Lane.
Authorities cautioned that vehicular movement — including private vehicles, public transport and even tram services — may be temporarily suspended or diverted along routes linked to the Prime Minister’s convoy and ceremonial processions. These restrictions will remain in force from early morning till evening, or longer if required.
Traffic police personnel have been authorised to divert vehicles from major arterial and feeder roads in real time based on ground conditions.
The elaborate traffic plan underscores the scale and sensitivity of the event, which follows the BJP’s historic electoral win in West Bengal. The oath-taking ceremony is expected to draw top political leaders and dignitaries, prompting heightened security and logistical arrangements across the city.
Officials said the restrictions will operate in addition to routine traffic regulations already in place, urging commuters to plan journeys in advance and avoid restricted zones wherever possible.