In a significant development for Kolkata commuters, the Kolkata Metro has successfully linked two key stations, Howrah and Sealdah, on the Green Line, drastically reducing travel time.This new connection will cut travel time between the two stations to just 11 minutes.
The newly completed Green Line, part of the East-West Metro Corridor, features a state-of-the-art Communications Based Train Control (CBTC) signaling system. This technology ensures safer and automated train operations. The rail corridor is expected to begin operations soon, providing much-needed relief to commuters.
The completion of the Sealdah-Esplanade stretch has been a major boost, particularly for the Bowbazar area in central Kolkata, which had previously faced disruptions due to tunnel collapses during construction.
An official from the Kolkata Metro expressed relief over the successful connection, saying, “It’s a great mental relief for the people and traders of Bowbazar that Metro Railway could finally mitigate the challenges caused by the tunneling crisis and successfully link Sealdah with Esplanade.”
This project, which introduces CBTC technology to Kolkata Metro for the first time, is expected to enhance the city’s public transport system. The new service between Howrah and Sealdah is compared to operating 72 air-conditioned buses every hour, covering the distance in just 11 minutes, or the equivalent of a bus departure every 50 seconds from both stations.
A senior official emphasized the significance of this development for passengers, noting, “The dream of lakhs of passengers to travel between Sealdah and Howrah in just 11 minutes on air-conditioned trains is becoming a reality.” This metro service will significantly reduce the usual 90-minute journey on congested roads between the two stations.
Earlier, the tunneling work in Bowbazar caused considerable disruptions, damaging buildings and businesses, which led to frustration among residents. Metro officials have been under pressure to resolve these issues, but the completion of this stretch marks a major milestone for the city’s metro network.
