📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas
Politics
West Bengal transport minister outlines river links, AI signals, tram revival plan
✍️ The Indian Express
🗓 30 Sep 2026, 02:17 PM
👁 19
The West Bengal transport minister presented a comprehensive roadmap that includes developing river transport corridors, introducing AI‑driven traffic signalling, and reviving Kolkata's tram network.
Kolkata – In a press briefing, the West Bengal transport minister unveiled a multi‑pronged roadmap aimed at modernising the state's transport infrastructure. The plan prioritises the creation of new river links to boost cargo and passenger movement along the state's extensive waterways.
A key component of the strategy is the deployment of artificial‑intelligence based traffic signal systems in major urban centres, intended to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion. The minister highlighted pilot projects that will integrate AI algorithms with existing signal infrastructure.
The roadmap also calls for the revival of Kolkata's historic tram network, which has seen a steep decline in recent years. Authorities intend to refurbish tram tracks and introduce modern rolling stock to make the service viable again. The minister said the combined initiatives aim to provide sustainable, efficient mobility options for citizens.
While detailed timelines and funding allocations were not disclosed, the transport ministry pledged to coordinate with central agencies and private partners to accelerate implementation.
A key component of the strategy is the deployment of artificial‑intelligence based traffic signal systems in major urban centres, intended to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion. The minister highlighted pilot projects that will integrate AI algorithms with existing signal infrastructure.
The roadmap also calls for the revival of Kolkata's historic tram network, which has seen a steep decline in recent years. Authorities intend to refurbish tram tracks and introduce modern rolling stock to make the service viable again. The minister said the combined initiatives aim to provide sustainable, efficient mobility options for citizens.
While detailed timelines and funding allocations were not disclosed, the transport ministry pledged to coordinate with central agencies and private partners to accelerate implementation.