On March 6, 2024, a monumental moment will grace Kolkata as India’s first-ever underwater metro service is set to debut, marking a significant milestone in the country’s transportation landscape. With Prime Minister Narendra Modi slated to officiate the inauguration, the event symbolizes a pivotal shift towards modernizing urban transit and fostering sustainable mobility solutions.
Central to this groundbreaking initiative is the remarkable engineering feat of a 16.6 km metro tunnel beneath the Hooghly River. This subaquatic passage not only facilitates seamless river crossings but also addresses long-standing challenges of traffic congestion and air pollution in Kolkata. By interlinking the twin cities of Howrah and Kolkata through six strategically positioned stations, including three subterranean ones, the underwater metro promises enhanced connectivity and accessibility for residents and commuters alike.
Of notable distinction is the Howrah Maidan-Esplanade section, distinguished as India’s first tunnel under a major river and housing the country’s deepest metro station. Spanning 4.8 km beneath the River Hooghly, this section forms a vital artery of the East-West Metro corridor, seamlessly connecting Howrah Maidan to Esplanade.
The successful test run of a train through the Hooghly River tunnel in April 2023 marked a historic milestone for the Kolkata Metro, showcasing both technical prowess and symbolic significance. Equipped with an innovative Automatic Train Operation (ATO) system, the metro ensures efficiency, with trains autonomously navigating to the next station at the push of a button by the motorman.
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The underwater metro’s ability to traverse a 520 m stretch under the river in a mere 45 seconds not only underscores its speed but also its seamless and time-efficient nature. With 10.8 km of its 16.6 km length situated underground, including the Hooghly River tunnel, the East-West Metro corridor seamlessly integrates modern transit with Kolkata’s urban fabric while preserving its cultural heritage.
Looking ahead, the Kolkata Metro envisions launching commercial operations for the entire East-West route between Salt Lake Sector V and Howrah Maidan by June or July, marking the fruition of years of meticulous planning and execution. As the inaugural journey of India’s first underwater metro service unfolds, it symbolizes not only a technological triumph but also a promise of improved urban mobility, environmental stewardship, and economic vitality for Kolkata and its residents.
The inauguration ceremony, led by Prime Minister Modi, is anticipated to be a grand affair, attended by dignitaries, officials, and the eager public keen on experiencing this revolutionary metro service firsthand. As the underwater metro embarks on its maiden voyage, it signifies a transformative moment in India’s transportation history, heralding a brighter, more sustainable future for Kolkata and inspiring similar endeavours across the nation.
Disclaimer: The above information is a result of research and Axpert Media is not responsible for errors in the same.
