East Bengal seek help to solve fans’ transport issues for Kolkata derby

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The Kolkata Derby is just around the corner and the drama continues. After the new ticket price fiasco, transport for the fans continues to be a major concern. Being the hosts, East Bengal have written letters to Metro Railways and the Transport Minister to provide additional transport facilities for fans after the match's conclusion.

The Kolkata Derby, slated to take place on March 10, 2024 will see a late kick-off. Unlike the actual time, the game will commence at 8:30 PM. Naturally, this means the game will conclude post-11 PM and it will be difficult for fans to travel back home.

“You must appreciate the fact that most of the supporters rely on Metro Railways to come and witness the matches at the stadium," East Bengal wrote in a letter to Metro Railways. "In the absence of services during that period, particularly from the stadium, it would be difficult for them to return home safely after the conclusion of the match. You are therefore requested to look into the matter and provide the necessary arrangements in this regard.

East Bengal also wrote to state's transport minister Snehasis Chakraborty: “We further request before your honour to kindly provide the necessary transport arrangements to the city’s key locations on 10-03-2024 as stated under from the Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan, Salt Lake after the conclusion of the matches at around 11:15 pm due to the revised delayed match timing."

The areas for which transport facilities are requested:

• Esplanade
• Ultadanga
• Garia
• Behala
• Barasat
• Sealdah Station
• Howrah Station.

Why Change in Timings of Kolkata Derby?

The Kolkata Derby saw a change in its timings owing to a Political Rally that has been organized on the very same date. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has called on a rally ahead of the Lok Sabha Elections. As a result, amidst problems regarding transport and police, the Derby kick-off time sees an hour delay.