Kolkata (historically Calcutta) is a linear city that has grown along the eastern bank of the river Hugli (also spelled Hooghly, and traditionally called the Ganges, in the West Bengal State of India. It served as the capital city of British India from 1773–1910. The British developed colonial architecture mostly in the central business district and the residential area designated for them. In the Chitpur area of north Kolkata, the Indians constructed buildings following European styles, but modifying parts according to their own social customs, individual choices and dictation – thus introducing a new style which was termed “Bengal Baroque” by some and generally called the “indigenous style”. Other old buildings also follow certain architectural typology and bear the history of eminent personalities of the society, thus constituting an overall cultural setting. However, many old buildings are in bad physical condition and have legal litigation. Meanwhile, tremendous real estate development and uncontrolled traffic circulation within this historic district are destroying the buildings, the historic cultural patina and the essence of the place. An urban design and planning solution is to be sought which would encompass the conservation of historic and old buildings and elements of the area as well as control over development for cultural compatibility and environmental sustainability.