Kolkata is set to get its second tunnel under the Ganges designed specifically for freight trucks. Following the metro tunnel connecting Kolkata and Howrah the central government now plans to build a new submerged route to ease traffic congestion and allow faster movement of goods vehicles.

Details & Context

The Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port Authority is taking the lead on this ambitious project, aiming to reduce the heavy traffic load on city roads and bridges. The proposed tunnel will connect Metiabruz in South Kolkata to Howrah enabling trucks to bypass crowded areas and quickly access national highways across West Bengal.

According to experts, this tunnel will play a crucial role in decongesting the city. Currently trucks from the port area have to navigate through busy city roads causing significant traffic jams. Once operational the new tunnel will offer a direct route under the Ganges for smoother transportation.

The Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port Authority will conduct feasibility tests to assess the possibility of building the tunnel beneath the Ganges. The project involves constructing a 15 km road, out of which 8 km will be a submerged tunnel. The estimated cost of the entire project is around Rs 11,000 crore.

Interestingly this concept isn’t entirely new. The Lefkenshoek Tunnel under the Scheldt River in Antwerp, Belgium serves as an inspiration. That tunnel spanning 1.37 km is a two-lane route with a height clearance of 5.10 meters - enough for large containers and trucks to pass easily. Officials at the Kolkata Port hope to replicate a similar design, ensuring seamless freight movement.

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Impact Analysis

- Traffic Reduction: The tunnel is expected to ease congestion on major city bridges diverting heavy vehicles underground. 

- Economic Boost: Quicker transportation of goods will enhance trade efficiency supporting the state's economy.

- Infrastructure Development: This project marks another step in Kolkata's journey towards advanced urban infrastructure.

With the central government’s push and the port authority's strategic planning the new Ganges tunnel could redefine freight transportation in Kolkata. The blend of innovative infrastructure and efficient logistics aims to strengthen the city’s connectivity and economy.