Kona Expressway, Kolkata

Kona Expressway is a part of National Highway 12. It ideally serves as a crucial connector between Kolkata and Howrah, enhancing the region's accessibility and influencing local real estate positively. Since its inception in 2001, it has become a key entry point into Kolkata, facilitating the daily commute of over 70,000 vehicles. The importance of the Kona Expressway lies not just in its facilitation of transport but also in its impact on the surrounding areas, making it a pivotal hub for development. Its location through key regions positions it as a prime area for residential investment, linking Kolkata with its neighbouring districts and serving as a gateway to the city's vast opportunities. For those looking to buy residential property, the expressway's vicinity means easier commutes, better connectivity, and an uptick in property value, making it a compelling choice for homeowners and investors alike.

What’s Good v/s What Can Be Better

Physical Infrastructure and Livability Index

The Kona Expressway boasts robust physical infrastructure and a high livability index. Namely, according to a recent survey, the PILI of Kona Expressway is 7.8 out of 10. This is among the best compared to the nearby localities in Kolkata, ensuring a sought-after lifestyle for the residents of Kona Expressway. With its excellent road network, including the expressway itself, residents enjoy easy access to key city areas and amenities. The presence of schools, hospitals, shopping malls, food corners, and recreational spots enhances the quality of life. Ultimately, this area's infrastructure supports a comfortable living environment, making it a desirable place for homebuyers seeking both convenience and quality of life.

Social Infrastructure- Restaurants

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

• Ganapatai Fast Food Shop
• Zaika Bar and Restaurant
• Sunshine Restaurant & Cafe
• Kabab House Nala Pukur
• Sreema Food Corner

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

Banks and ATMs 

• ICICI Bank
• Axis Bank 
• Union Bank
• HDFC Bank
• Bank Of India
• Bank of Baroda
• State Bank of India

Metros and Railway Stations 

• Maidan Metro Station
• Howrah Maidan Metro Station
• Padmapukur Railway Station
• Shalimar Railway Station
• Kona Railway Station

Bus Terminals

• Kona Expressway Crossing 
• Belepole
• Khejurtala
• Moukhali
• Nabanna
• Belepole

Airport

• Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata 

Public Parks

• SDSL Park
• Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak Park
• Khejur Pukur Park
• Netaji Sangha Children's Park
• Jagacha Park
• Beltala Children's Park

Popular Roads in Kona Expressway

The popular roads around Kona Expressway are as follows:

Carry Road 

This road branches off the Kona Expressway and connects to Andul Road, an important route of Howrah parallel to the Kona Expressway. It has some residential and commercial developments along its way.

Drainage Canal Road 

This road joins the Kona Expressway at Belepole and provides access to Howrah-Amta Road and Howrah Maidan. It has some temples, schools, and markets along its route.

Santragachi Road 

This road crosses over the Kona Expressway and leads to Santragachi, a major locality in Howrah. It notably features two essential intercity railway junctions en route: Santragachi Junction and Shalimar Station. Additionally, it encompasses a bus terminus, a lake, and several malls along its path.

Maheshwaram Road 

This road links the Kona Expressway to Maheshwaram, a town renowned for its silk sarees and handlooms. Along its route, it showcases shopping malls, including South India Shopping Mall and Reliance Trends. Additionally, it passes by religious sites, such as Maheshwara Temple and Sai Baba Temple.

Nearby Localities to Kona Expressway

How do People Rate Kona Expressway?

Kona Expressway is highly regarded for its role in significantly easing the traffic flow between Kolkata and its suburbs. The introduction of a 7.2-km-long six-lane elevated super-highway, aimed at reducing congestion, is a testament to its continuous evolution to meet the growing demands of urban mobility. This infrastructure not only supports the daily commute of thousands but also plays a key role in the economic and social development of the region, contributing to a positive perception among the populace. However, challenges such as vehicular congestion and traffic-related accidents have been noted. Despite these issues, the ongoing and planned infrastructural upgrades are expected to enhance the expressway's functionality and safety, promising a better future for both residents and commuters.

How to Visit Kona Expressway?

You can visit Kona Expressway by using different modes of transport, such as:

By Road

If you are approaching Kolkata from Dankuni, you can turn left from Salap Crossing on NH-16 and enter Makardah Road at Bankra. Then follow the road over Balitikuri and Dasnagar and turn right at Drainage Canal Road. This road will meet Kona Expressway, and you can turn left for Vidyasagar Setu1. Alternatively, you can take Srisailam Highway or NH-12 from Hyderabad or other southern cities and reach the Kona Expressway near Nibra.

By Railway 

You can get the train at either Santragachi Junction or Shalimar Station, which are both located along the Kona Expressway. From there, you can take a bus, taxi, or auto-rickshaw to reach your destination on the expressway.

By Air 

You can take a flight at Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport, which is about 24 km away from the Kona Expressway. From the airport, you can take a cab, bus, or metro to reach the expressway. You can also book a prepaid taxi from the airport counter to avoid hassle.

Places to Visit in Kona Expressway

There are many places to visit around Kona Expressway, such as:

Satsang Upasana Kendra Kona 

This is a spiritual centre of the Satsang sect, founded by Sri Sri Thakur Anukulchandra. It is located in Naskar Para, Kona, Howrah. It offers a serene and peaceful environment for meditation and prayer.

Vidyasagar Setu 

This is the longest cable-stayed bridge in India, built over the Hooghly River. It connects the Kona Expressway with Kolkata. It offers a panoramic view of the city skyline and the river. It is also known as the Second Hooghly Bridge.

Santragachi Jheel 

This is a lake located in Santragachi, Howrah, which attracts different migratory birds over the winter months. It is a perfect place for birdwatching and nature photography. It is also a popular picnic spot for locals and tourists. 

Mullick Ghat Flower Market 

This is one of the largest and oldest flower markets in India, located under the Howrah Bridge. It is recognised as a colourful and vibrant place where thousands of flowers are sold daily. It is a must-visit place for flower lovers and photographers.

Locality Comparison

Kona Expressway competes with nearby localities like Padmapukur, Shalimar, and Chaterjihat in terms of residential appeal. The availability of various housing options, including 1, 2, 3, and 4 BHK apartments, at reasonable prices, further distinguishes it as a desirable living destination. Thus, its direct connectivity to key city hubs and the availability of diverse housing options give it an edge over others. While areas like Padmapukur and Shalimar offer similar benefits, Kona Expressway's strategic position at the crossroads of major transportation links and its proximity to significant commercial and recreational venues make it a more desirable choice for many.

Conclusion

Kona Expressway stands out for its excellent connectivity, burgeoning physical infrastructure, and the balance it offers between urban convenience and residential tranquillity. Its evolution into a sought-after residential area, coupled with the government's focus on infrastructural development, positions it as a promising locality for property buyers looking for homes in Kolkata's suburban areas. The blend of modern living facilities, accessibility, and the anticipated improvement in traffic management and safety protocols make Kona Expressway a prime locality for those seeking a blend of convenience and quality living.