National Current Affairs

On April 1, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially inaugurated India's first underwater metro line in Kolkata, West Bengal. The project, a significant engineering feat, involves a 4.8-kilometer stretch of the East-West Metro corridor that runs beneath the Hooghly River. This pioneering section connects Mahakaran station to Howrah Maidan, passing through a tunnel constructed 32 meters below the riverbed. The tunnel, built using advanced Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs), is a testament to India's growing capabilities in complex infrastructure development. The project aims to decongest traffic in the city and provide a faster, more efficient mode of public transport. The underwater section is expected to significantly reduce travel time between Howrah and Kolkata, two major economic hubs. The Kolkata Metro Rail Corporation Limited (KMRCL) has overseen the project, which faced several technical challenges during its construction. The inauguration marks a new era in urban transportation for India, showcasing the nation's commitment to modernizing its infrastructure and improving the quality of life for its citizens. The project has been developed with a focus on safety, employing state-of-the-art technology for ventilation, drainage, and emergency evacuation. The underwater tunnel is designed to withstand seismic activities and water pressure, ensuring the safety of passengers. This development is also expected to boost tourism and economic activity in the region.