KOLKATA: For the third consecutive year, Kolkata has set a new monthly record in vehicle registrations, with 7,794 new vehicles hitting the city’s roads in June—further intensifying concerns over traffic congestion and air pollution. The surge, led by two- and four-wheelers, reflects a growing trend toward private mobility amid persistent gaps in public transport infrastructure.
Official data from the Public Vehicles Department (PVD) at Beltala showed the highest number of registrations at 3,261, up from 2,685 in June 2024. Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) in Salt Lake, Kasba, and Behala also reported steady or rising figures, reinforcing what experts say is a worrying upward trend.
“This relentless increase in personalised vehicle ownership is a ticking time bomb,” warned transportation analyst Anirban Das. “Beyond traffic gridlock, the city is seeing a rapid rise in fuel consumption, a drop in commute efficiency, and worsening air quality.”
Environmental activist Subhas Datta echoed the concern, noting that Kolkata already struggles with PM2.5 levels that exceed World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. “With nearly 7,800 new vehicles added in a single month, the burden on the city’s fragile air quality will only intensify, especially during peak hours,” he said.
Year-on-year data underscores the acceleration:
- June 2023: 7,061 registrations
- June 2024: 7,153 registrations
- June 2025: 7,794 registrations
Suburban zones are increasingly contributing to the surge. For instance, Behala RTO recorded a jump from 867 registrations in June 2024 to 924 this year. While Kasba and Salt Lake saw only minor changes, the steady figures suggest that rising disposable income, convenience, and limited public transit continue to fuel private vehicle purchases across the city and its fringes.
A senior transport official admitted the city faces capacity constraints and enforcement challenges, but added that solutions are in the works. “We’re focusing on smarter traffic systems and improving public transport. But real change will require a shift in behaviour—reducing dependence on private vehicles is essential,” the official said.
Urban planning experts are urging immediate policy action to prevent a full-blown mobility crisis. Dipankar Sinha, former Director General of Town Planning at KMC, outlined several interventions:
- Congestion pricing in high-traffic zones
- Stricter emission standards
- Improved last-mile connectivity
- Incentives for electric vehicle (EV) adoption
Without decisive steps, experts warn, the current growth trajectory could soon overwhelm Kolkata’s road infrastructure and further endanger public health.
