Kolkata Metro's Underwater Section Inaugurated, India's First
2026-04-10Background: The Kolkata Metro is India's oldest metro system, serving the city for decades. Urban transport infrastructure development has been a key focus for the government to ease congestion and improve connectivity in major metropolitan areas.
Current Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Howrah Maidan-Esplanade section of Kolkata Metro's East-West corridor on March 15, 2024. This 4.8 km stretch is a significant engineering achievement, featuring India's first underwater tunnel built under the Hooghly River.
Impact: This new section is expected to drastically reduce travel time between Howrah and Esplanade, two vital hubs in Kolkata. It will enhance public transportation, boost economic activity by improving access to commercial areas, and showcase India's advanced engineering and construction capabilities in complex urban projects.