Kolkata Book Fair Day 2 Sees 3.5 L Footfall as Metro Ticket Kiosk Eases Rush
The 49th International Kolkata Book Fair (IKBF) has surged ahead of schedule, drawing an estimated 3.5 lakh visitors on its second day, according to officials from the Publishers and Booksellers Guild. The footfall, which has already surpassed six lakh across the first two days, is expected to climb further as the fair extends into a four‑day holiday stretch that includes Republic Day.
Background and Context
The IKBF, held annually at the iconic Howrah Maidan, is one of the world’s largest book fairs, attracting authors, publishers, and book lovers from across India and abroad. In 2026, the fair’s organizers have introduced several logistical enhancements to accommodate the growing crowds, most notably a metro ticket‑buying kiosk positioned between gates 1 and 2. This first‑of‑its‑kind facility allows visitors to purchase tickets on the spot, either by cash or via UPI, thereby reducing congestion at the Karunamoyee and Central Park metro stations.
With back‑to‑back holidays on Sunday and the Republic Day on Monday, the fair’s organizers anticipate a record‑breaking turnout over the next two days. The Guild’s spokesperson noted that the first full day, Friday, saw approximately 2.5 lakh visitors, setting a strong foundation for the weekend.
Key Developments
1. Metro Ticket Kiosk – The new kiosk, installed inside the fairground, has already sold around 250 tickets on Friday, easing the rush at the metro stations. Visitors can scan a UPI code or pay cash, making the process quick and convenient.
2. Increased Footfall – Day two’s 3.5 lakh visitors represent a 40% increase from the previous day, underscoring the fair’s growing popularity. The Guild estimates that the total footfall for the first four days could exceed 10 lakh.
3. Direct Metro Connectivity – The Green Line’s direct link from Howrah to Sector V via Esplanade has made it easier for attendees to reach the fair. Thousands of visitors who previously took longer routes are now arriving directly at Karunamoyee or Central Park stations.
4. Enhanced Safety Measures – In response to the high crowd density, organizers have increased security personnel, installed additional signage, and deployed crowd‑control barriers to ensure a safe environment for all attendees.
Impact Analysis
The surge in footfall has several implications for different stakeholders:
- Readers and Book Lovers – The increased attendance means a wider variety of books, authors, and events are available, providing richer opportunities for discovery and networking.
- Publishers and Authors – Higher footfall translates to greater exposure and potential sales. The new metro kiosk also reduces the time spent waiting, allowing more time for interactions and book signings.
- Local Businesses – Vendors around the fairground benefit from the influx of visitors, boosting sales of food, souvenirs, and transport services.
- Students and Academics – The fair’s extensive collection of academic texts and research publications offers a valuable resource for students preparing for competitive exams and research projects.
However, the rapid increase in visitors also poses logistical challenges. The fair’s organizers have responded by expanding the metro kiosk’s capacity and improving crowd‑management protocols to maintain a smooth flow.
Expert Insights and Practical Tips
Shikha Banerjee, a frequent visitor from Rashbehari Avenue, praised the new kiosk: “It’s a very convenient facility set up by the authorities to avoid the rush at the ticket counters inside the metro station.” She recommends that visitors:
- Arrive Early – To secure a spot at the kiosk and avoid long queues.
- Use UPI – The UPI option speeds up the ticket purchase process.
- Plan Your Route – Familiarize yourself with the fair’s layout to navigate efficiently.
- Stay Hydrated – The fair can be physically demanding; carrying water is essential.
Publishers’ Guild officials advise that the fair’s extended schedule offers ample time for networking. They suggest scheduling meetings in advance and taking advantage of the increased footfall to showcase new titles.
Looking Ahead
As the fair continues into its fourth day, organizers are optimistic about maintaining the momentum. The Guild plans to introduce additional kiosks and digital ticketing options to further streamline the visitor experience. They also aim to expand the fair’s international presence by inviting more foreign publishers and authors.
For students, the fair presents a unique opportunity to access a vast array of academic resources and to engage with experts in various fields. The Guild’s upcoming “Student Book Fair” segment will feature discounted books and workshops tailored to academic needs.
In the long term, the IKBF’s success could inspire similar initiatives in other cultural events, promoting digital solutions to manage crowds and enhance visitor satisfaction.
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