Wedoany.com Report-Nov. 3, India is planning a new bridge across the Hooghly River as part of the proposed 620 km Varanasi-Kolkata Expressway. The bridge would connect Bagnan in Howrah district to Pujali in South 24 Parganas, providing a crucial link for the expressway and significantly reducing travel time between Varanasi and Kolkata from the current 14 hours to an estimated 6 hours. The project is being managed by the National Highways Authority of India.

A fourth bridge crossing spanning India’s Hooghly River is being proposed, with the most famous bridge being the historic Howrah Bridge

The expressway is designed with two lanes in each direction and is projected to cost approximately $4 billion. If approved, the new bridge would become the fourth crossing over the Hooghly River. Existing crossings include the historic Howrah Bridge, Vidyasagar Setu, and Nivedita Setu, all serving as important transport links in the region.

The proposed bridge is expected to improve regional connectivity, streamline traffic flow, and support economic development along the expressway corridor. By shortening travel times and providing a modern transportation route, the project aims to enhance logistics efficiency and facilitate smoother passenger and freight movement between northern and eastern India.

The expressway, together with the new bridge, is part of India’s broader infrastructure development strategy to modernize national highways, strengthen intercity connections, and reduce travel bottlenecks. Officials highlight that the new link will not only improve convenience for commuters but also support trade, industry, and tourism in the connected regions.

The bridge and expressway initiative is currently under proposal, with further approvals and planning required before construction can begin. Once realized, it will complement the existing Hooghly River crossings, enhancing the overall transport network and contributing to faster, safer, and more efficient road travel across the area.

This infrastructure development is seen as a key step toward transforming regional mobility, improving access between major urban centers, and supporting India’s long-term economic and social growth objectives.