KMDA to evaluate Chitpore ROB ramp feasibility

The Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA) is planning to study the feasibility of widening the carriageway for a new ramp at the Chitpore rail over bridge (ROB). This ramp will connect BT Road near Chiria More with the new ROB. The current ROB is in poor condition and is set to be demolished and rebuilt. A government official stated that the new bridge will have a standard length and width. However, the ramp requires a wider carriageway for construction. After the feasibility study, a detailed project report will be created for the demolition and reconstruction of the ROB. The demolition and rebuilding work will be handled by the same agency, which will be chosen after the project report is approved. Before demolition can start, about 150 families living in shanties under the bridge must be relocated. Additionally, clearance from the rail authorities is necessary. The Chitpore ROB is over 70 years old and connects Bagbazar and Cossipore in north Kolkata. A previous recommendation from KMDA's bridge advisory committee found the bridge too damaged for long-term repairs. Officials noted that corrosion has severely affected the structure, leaving it beyond repair. Short-term fixes have been applied, but they are no longer sufficient.