Archive · 6 Jun 2025
Kolkata's Red Road Transformed into WWII Airstrip
During World War II, the Japanese attacked India, making the British worry.
To show they were strong and could protect the city, the British turned Red Road in Kolkata into an airstrip.
Fighter planes like Spitfires and Hurricanes landed there, which was exciting for the people.
This helped the British move supplies and planes quickly, but the road wasn't perfect for planes because it was narrow and had bumpy surfaces.
However, it lifted the spirits of people in the city.
After the war, Red Road went back to being a regular road, and now people gather there for events.
During WWII, Kolkata's Red Road was converted into an emergency airstrip for the RAF.
The transformation aimed to boost morale and support Allied operations against the Japanese.
RAF aircraft like Spitfires and Hurricanes used the Red Road for landings and deployments.
The airstrip facilitated the movement of supplies and personnel to forward bases.
After the war, the Red Road was returned to civilian use.
- Who
- Royal Air Force (RAF)
- What
- Red Road in Kolkata was used as an airstrip for the RAF.
- When
- During World War II, specifically around 1942-1943
- Where
- Red Road in Kolkata (Calcutta), India
- Why
- To serve as an emergency airstrip, boost morale, and support the Allied war effort against Japan.
- Road Width
- 60 feet
- Year Airstrip Conversion Began
- 1942
- Aircraft Used
- Supermarine Spitfire, Hawker Hurricane
- Strategic Hub for Allies
- Calcutta
- Airstrip Purpose
- Emergency landings and quick deployments
- Active Airstrip Period
- Until 1943