Ashok Kumar Gupta Padmanabhya EnclaveChetla, Kolkata

Chetla is a delightful locality in South Kolkata. Streets lined with various shops, local eateries, and marketplaces define the everyday scene, making it a lively place to reside. As it is encircled by prestigious areas like Alipore, Ballygunge, and Behala, residents have easy access to various parts of the city. You can find the iconic Kalighat Temple and the serene Rabindra Sarobar (Lake) just a short distance away. These spots offer residents a touch of nature amid urban surroundings. Whether you’re looking for spirituality or a peaceful walk, these places add to Chetla’s appeal. The housing options in Chetla are just as diverse as its culture. There's something for everyone, from quaint old houses to sleek, modern high-rises. This variety makes it easy for people with different tastes and budgets to find a home here. Moreover, combining traditional charm and contemporary convenience makes Chetla uniquely inviting. It's a place where the past meets the present, creating a dynamic yet cosy urban environment​.

What’s Good vs. What Can Be Better?

Physical Infrastructure and Livability Index

The infrastructure in Chetla is well-developed, facilitating a lifestyle that balances residential comfort with accessibility. The area is connected by well-maintained roads and an expanding public transport network, with the nearest metro station just a short drive away. Moreover, residents benefit from various civic amenities, including reputable schools like the Sri Sri Academy, multiple healthcare facilities like the BM Birla Heart Research Centre, and ample recreational areas. These factors collectively contribute to Chetla’s high livability index. Despite challenges such as occasional water logging during heavy rains, the municipal services are proactive, ensuring clean streets and well-lit public spaces, making Chetla a desirable locality for many​​.

Social Infrastructure- Restaurants

The following are the popular restaurants you can find in Chetla, Kolkata:

• Drishti Restaurant
• Raj Restaurant
• Banana Leaf Restaurant
• Punjabi Food Junction (Veg) Restaurant
• Tandoori Darbar Restaurant

Banks/ Metro Stations/ Airport/ Bus Terminal/ Railway Stations/ Parks

Banks and ATMs 

• Central Bank of India
• Axis Bank
• HDFC Bank
• ICICI Bank
• State Bank of India
• Kotak Mahindra Bank
• United Bank of India
• Canara Bank

Metros and Railway Stations 

• Kalighat Metro Station
• Rabindra Sarovar Metro Station 
• Jatin Das Park Metro Station
• New Alipur Calcutta Train Station
• Tollygunge Train Station
• Majerhat Train Station

Bus Terminals

• Chetla
• Alipore Chetla Crossing
• Durgapur Bridge
• New Alipore Bankim Mukherjee Sarani
• Chanditala

Airport

• Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata

Public Parks

• Chetla City Park
• CIT park
• Birsha Munda Trikon Park
• Chetla Booster Pumping Station Local Park
• Chirantani Park

Popular Roads in Chetla, Kolkata

Some of the popular roads in Chetla are as follows:

Chetla Central Road

This road connects residents to vital amenities and the city beyond. It has a mix of residential complexes and local businesses and reflects the area’s vibrant community spirit. The road is also a hub for property seekers, with various housing options catering to diverse preferences and budgets.

Chetla Road 

Stretching over 2.27 kilometres, Chetla Road is a significant thoroughfare linking New Alipore, Tollygunge, and Alipore neighbourhoods with Chetla. It’s known for its smooth connectivity and easy access to various parts of the city, making it a preferred route for daily commuters and locals alike.

Asoka Road

It offers a peaceful residential setting, a quieter counterpart to the main roads. It’s characterised by well-maintained homes and the occasional local store, providing a serene atmosphere that’s still within reach of Chetla’s lively centre.

Burdwan Road 

This road is synonymous with convenience, thanks to its proximity to several schools, hospitals, and markets. Locals often frequent Burdwan Road for its blend of residential calm and easy access to Chetla’s social infrastructure.

Nearby Localities to Chetla, Kolkata

How do People Rate the Chetla, Kolkata?

Residents of Chetla rate the locality highly for its strategic location and comprehensive amenities. It’s a community where traditional values meet modern convenience, creating a supportive and friendly neighbourhood vibe. The availability of everyday necessities within walking distance and easy access to Kolkata’s business and cultural centres makes it highly attractive. While some residents express concerns over traffic congestion and noise, the consensus remains positive, with many appreciating the safe environment and the mix of cultural activities available, including festivals and local markets that are vibrant hubs of activity​.

How Do I Visit Chetla, Kolkata?

Visiting Chetla in Kolkata can be a smooth experience, whether you choose road, train, or air:

By Road 

Driving to Chetla is straightforward, with well-marked roads leading into the area. Buses frequently run from various parts of Kolkata, including a direct route from Park Street that takes about 11 minutes. Taxis are readily available, offering a quick and comfortable ride.

By Train 

Kolkata’s extensive rail network makes train travel viable. The nearest railway station to Chetla is New Alipur, and you can take a local train from Sealdah station to reach there. The journey is short, averaging around 19 minutes.

By Air 

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport is the nearest airport for those flying in. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to Chetla. The distance is about 25 km, and the drive typically takes less than an hour, depending on traffic.

Places to Visit in Chetla, Kolkata

Following are some of the places to visit in Chetla, Kolkata:

Victoria Memorial 

This grand marble building is an iconic symbol of Kolkata’s colonial past. It houses a museum with a rich collection of paintings and artefacts, surrounded by lush gardens, offering a glimpse into the city’s history.

Howrah Bridge 

An engineering marvel, this cantilever bridge spans the Hooghly River and is a sight to behold, especially at night when it’s lit up. It’s also a bustling place that captures the essence of Kolkata’s daily life.

Botanical Garden 

Home to various plants, including the famous Great Banyan Tree, this sprawling garden is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle. 

New Town Eco Park

This urban park features a large water body, thematic gardens, and recreational activities. It’s a modern green space where picnics, boating, and cultural events can be enjoyed.

Kalighat Kali Temple 

One of the 51 Shakti Peethas, this ancient temple is dedicated to the goddess Kali. It’s a significant religious site that also offers a chance to experience the spiritual side of Kolkata. 

Locality Comparison

Chetla is distinctive among neighbouring localities like Alipore, New Alipore, and Bhowanipore. It offers a more affordable living option than the upscale Alipore, where residential properties often charge premium prices. Unlike New Alipore, which is predominantly residential, Chetla provides a balanced mix of commercial and residential spaces, enhancing its vibrancy and appeal. Compared to Bhowanipore, which has a higher density of commercial establishments, Chetla offers a quieter, more family-friendly environment. Each of these localities boasts unique characteristics, but Chetla’s blend of affordability, community spirit, and central location makes it particularly appealing to a broad demographic​​.

Conclusion

Chetla stands out as a preferred locality in Kolkata due to its optimal blend of cultural richness, strategic location, and community atmosphere. The neighbourhood thrives on its accessibility to key city areas, robust infrastructure, and lively market culture, making it a magnet for those seeking a dynamic yet affordable urban lifestyle. Housing options are diverse, catering to various socioeconomic groups, and the continuous development promises further enhancement of living conditions. The local community is engaged and active, contributing to the area's safety and the overall quality of life. Chetla’s enduring appeal is its ability to offer a harmonious living experience amidst the bustle of Kolkata​.