Legacy of a master planner behind Kolkata’s modern shape
KOLKATA — Santosh Ghosh, one of West Bengal’s most respected town planners and architects, passed away on Saturday, May 3, at the age of 89. Ghosh was best known as the chief architect of the Calcutta Metropolitan Planning Organisation (CMPO), where he played a pivotal role in shaping the urban landscape of post-independence Kolkata.
He died at his South Kolkata residence following age-related ailments, his family confirmed. Ghosh is survived by his wife and two sons.
Architect of a vision that shaped the metro
Ghosh was instrumental in developing several key urban infrastructure plans for the Kolkata metropolitan region during the 1960s and 70s. As part of CMPO, he was involved in early metro planning, zoning strategy, drainage frameworks, and heritage preservation projects.
His vision helped transform Kolkata’s chaotic growth into more structured urban development. “He was a quiet visionary who never sought fame but delivered lasting impact,” said Debasis Basu, a fellow architect and former student of Ghosh.
Founder of the Centre for Built Environment
Apart from his work in CMPO, Ghosh co-founded the Centre for Built Environment (CBE), a think tank focused on sustainable architecture and planning. Through CBE, he mentored young architects and planners, stressing the importance of blending tradition with modernity in design.
“He was passionate about Kolkata’s cultural identity and worked tirelessly to retain that character even as the city modernised,” said urban historian Swagato Sinha.
Tributes pour in from the architecture and planning fraternity
The news of Ghosh’s passing led to an outpouring of tributes from architects, civil engineers, and students across India. The Indian Institute of Architects (IIA) issued a formal condolence note, calling him “a luminary of post-independence Indian urbanism.”
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also expressed her condolences, stating, “His contribution to Kolkata’s evolution as a city will never be forgotten.”
Final rites and memorial planned
The funeral will be held on Monday at Keoratala crematorium. The CBE is organizing a public memorial next week to honor his life and legacy.
May his soul rest in peace