First time in India: Kolkata Metro undertook an under-river journey
In a historic moment for India’s rapid transit system, Kolkata Metro ran under a river for the first time in the country. The trail run was conducted from Howrah to Esplanade in Kolkata as the metro made its journey under the Hoogly river.
For the first time in India, the metro undertook an under-river journey. Metro Rail general manager P. Uday Kumar Reddy travelled from Mahakaran to Howrah Maidan station in rake no. MR-612 to witness this historic event. The rake crossed the Hooghly River at 11:55 a.m. Additional GMs, Metro Railway, and Kolkata Metro Rail Corporation (KMRCL) MD HN Jaiswal, as well as other senior officers, accompanied him during this journey. Reddy offered puja at Howrah station once the train reached there. Later, rake no. MR-613 was also taken to Howrah Maidan station.
P. Uday Kumar Reddy, general manager of Kolkata Metro, described the run as a historic moment for the city of Kolkata. “It is the first time that a train has moved below the Hoogly River.” It is also the deepest station at 33 metres of depth, a first in India.
This is a historic moment for the city of Kolkata. “It will take seven months to complete the trails, and after that, we will be able to start regular services,” Reddy said. “After many hurdles, we have succeeded in running trains beneath the Hooghly River, a revolutionary step in the transport system of Kolkata.” “This is indeed a special new year gift from Indian Railways for the people of Bengal,” Metro Rail chief public relations officer Kausik Mitra told.
It is expected that commercial services on this stretch will begin this year. Once this stretch is open, Howrah will be the deepest metro station (33 metres below the surface) in the country. The metro is expected to cover a 520-meter stretch under the Hooghly River in 45 seconds. This tunnel under the river is 32 metres below the river bed.
Significance of Kolkata Metro
EtaThe Kolkata Metro, a rapid transit system that serves the city of Kolkata, has undergone significant upgrades and expansions in recent years, improving transportation options for the city’s residents and visitors.
Recently, the Kolkata Metro system is the completion of the much-anticipated East-West Metro line, which connects the eastern and western suburbs of Kolkata. The 16.5 km line, which includes 12 stations, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in February 2022 and has since been providing fast and convenient transportation to commuters.
The East-West Metro is the first metro line in India to use Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) technology, which allows for automated train operation, real-time train tracking, and improved safety features. The line has been designed to be eco-friendly, with regenerative braking systems that recycle energy, and energy-efficient lighting and ventilation systems.
In addition to the East-West Metro line, the Kolkata Metro has also been expanding its existing network. The North-South Metro line, which currently spans 27.2 km with 24 stations, is undergoing a significant expansion to extend it to the Kolkata Airport, a much-needed addition for the city’s commuters.
The Kolkata Metro has also introduced several initiatives to improve the experience of its passengers. The introduction of a mobile app allows commuters to purchase tickets online, and the installation of Wi-Fi at stations and inside trains provides passengers with internet access during their journeys.
Furthermore, the Kolkata Metro has taken steps to become more accessible to persons with disabilities. Elevators and ramps have been installed at stations, and trains have designated spaces for wheelchair users. The Metro also employs special staff to assist passengers with disabilities.
The Kolkata Metro has come a long way since its inception in 1984, and its recent upgrades and expansions have positioned it as a crucial mode of transportation for the city’s residents and visitors. With plans for further expansion and improvements in the works, the Kolkata Metro looks set to continue its role in shaping the city’s transportation landscape.
