Kolkata, October 15, 2026: The West Bengal government has ordered an investigation after videos showing multiple motorcyclists apparently skidding on a newly painted, colourful stretch of Kolkata’s Chingrighata flyover went viral on social media. The road had recently been decorated ahead of Durga Puja, but the footage has raised concerns that the painted surface may have become slippery in wet conditions.
Viral Video Shows Bikers Losing Control
A short dashcam video circulating on social media appears to show at least three motorcyclists losing control on the brightly painted flyover while the road was wet.
The footage triggered debate over whether the beautification work had compromised road safety. Authorities are examining the circumstances surrounding the reported incidents.
Chingrighata Flyover at the Centre of Controversy
The reported skidding incidents took place on the Chingrighata flyover along Kolkata’s EM Bypass.
The flyover is among several locations decorated with bright colours as part of a beautification drive ahead of Durga Puja. The initiative aimed to give the city’s roads and flyovers a festive appearance.
Government Orders Investigation
The West Bengal government has directed relevant agencies to investigate whether the paint contributed to the reported loss of traction.
Officials from the Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority, police and other departments are involved in examining the incident and assessing the safety of the painted surface.
Minister Says Anti-Skid Paint Was Used
West Bengal Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Minister Agnimitra Paul said anti-skid paint had been used for the project. She denied allegations that ordinary oil-based paint had been applied to the road surface.
The minister indicated that corrective measures would be taken if the investigation found that the painted surface posed a safety risk.
Paint Could Be Removed if Found Unsafe
The government has indicated that the paint could be removed or modified if police and technical experts determine that it contributed to the skidding incidents.
The administration has maintained that public safety would take priority over the beautification project.
Gariahat Flyover and Red Road Also Painted
The Chingrighata flyover is not the only Kolkata location to receive the colourful treatment. Sections of the Gariahat flyover and Red Road were also painted in rainbow shades, while traditional alpana designs were added at selected locations ahead of the festive season.
The investigation could influence whether similar decorative treatments are retained, modified or removed.
Opposition Questions Road-Safety Standards
Opposition leaders have criticised the government over the project, arguing that decorative road treatments must not reduce tyre grip or increase the risk of accidents.
They have called for accountability if the investigation establishes that unsuitable materials or inadequate safety measures contributed to the incidents.
Government Says CSR Funds Were Used
Officials said the beautification work was undertaken using corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds rather than regular government expenditure.
The administration has maintained that safety specifications were part of the project. The investigation will examine whether the materials and application methods met the required standards.
Injuries Not Immediately Confirmed
Although the viral footage appears to show motorcycles falling on the wet road, authorities had not immediately confirmed whether anyone suffered serious injuries.
Investigators are reviewing the footage and gathering information about the incidents to establish what happened.
Authenticity of Viral Footage Also Under Review
Authorities have also asked police to verify the authenticity of the viral video following questions about whether it could have been digitally manipulated or generated using artificial intelligence.
No publicly presented evidence has established that the footage was fabricated. Its authenticity remains a matter for verification.
Rain and Road Grip Under Investigation
Reports indicate that the road was wet following drizzle when the motorcyclists reportedly lost control.
Investigators are expected to examine whether rainfall reduced friction on the painted surface and whether the materials used met applicable road-safety requirements. The findings will help determine whether the paint played a role or whether other factors contributed to the incidents.
Beautification Versus Road Safety Debate Grows
The controversy has sparked a wider discussion about balancing urban beautification with road engineering and public safety.
The investigation will need to establish whether the painted surface contributed to the reported skids and whether the project complied with relevant safety standards. Its findings could shape decisions about the future of colourful road treatments on busy urban roads, particularly during wet weather.
Source: The Indian Express, India Today and PTI
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