Archive · 14 Aug 2025
Calcutta's Governance Criticized Amidst Traffic Woes
Imagine it rained a lot in Calcutta, and the roads got messed up, making it hard to get around.
It's like the city isn't prepared for heavy rain, unlike a place like Singapore.
The article says that one person is in charge of both the city and the state's urban planning.
Because of this, it's harder to make sure things are working correctly, and there is no one to hold them accountable.
The article suggests the city needs to fix this issue.
Calcutta experienced severe traffic disruptions and damaged roads in late July due to heavy rainfall.
Increased commute times and vehicle repair costs were results of the rainfall.
Heavy rainfall was above average in several districts of South Bengal, including Calcutta.
The article attributes the issues to a lack of accountability in Calcutta's governance compared to Singapore.
The mayor of Calcutta also serves as the minister-in-charge of urban development, creating a conflict of interest.
- Who
- Citizens of Calcutta, city officials, the mayor/minister of urban development, and the author (Anamitra Danda).
- What
- Traffic dislocation and damaged roads in Calcutta due to heavy rainfall and alleged lack of accountability.
- When
- During the last week of July.
- Where
- Calcutta, West Bengal, India.
- Why
- A perceived lack of accountability in Calcutta's municipal government compared to other cities like Singapore and an inherent conflict of interest.
Critic's Perspective:
No opposing view present.
Accountability
Critic's Perspective:
Current governance structure in Calcutta lacks accountability.
No opposing view present.
No direct opposing view mentioned in the article.
- Affected City
- Calcutta
- Rainfall Impact
- Damaged roads, traffic disruption
- Cause of Issues
- Heavy Rainfall
- Key Issue
- Lack of Accountability
- Conflict of Interest
- Mayor is also Minister of Urban Development
Sources
Howrah’s water horrors persist; choked drains leave residents wading through filthy floods - Telegraph India
Cong accuses Centre, state of ignoring riverbank erosion in Malda, Murshidabad