Enhancing interchangeability between Eastern Railway suburban network & Kolkata Metro Railway
Kolkata: Kolkata is set to witness a historic milestone in urban transport with the commissioning of nearly 14 km of new Metro stretches, promising to transform connectivity between the Metro Railway network and Eastern Railway’s vast suburban system.
Three major sections are scheduled for inauguration:
- Sealdah to Esplanade (2.45 km)
- Noapara to Jai Hind Bimanbandar (6.77 km)
- Hemanta Mukhopadhyay to Beleghata (4.39 km)
This unprecedented expansion will not only boost Metro coverage but also bring seamless interchangeability between Metro and suburban rail passengers in both Howrah and Sealdah divisions.
Cutting travel time drastically
The much-awaited Sealdah–Esplanade stretch will reduce the journey between Sealdah and Howrah from about one hour by road to just 11 minutes by Metro. This establishes a direct underground link between the two busiest terminals of Eastern Railway. With over a million suburban passengers using Howrah and Sealdah daily, commuters will now enjoy swift access to Kolkata’s central business districts.
Better Airport access
The Noapara–Airport line will significantly cut down travel time to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport from Esplanade and other central business hubs through multiple interchange points with the suburban network. This integration is expected to be a major relief for fliers as well as office-goers.
Strengthening network interchanges
Currently, Metro–Eastern Railway interchange exists at Sealdah and Dum Dum Junction, with another link planned at Dum Dum Cantonment. The new stretches will add to these vital connectors, ensuring greater passenger convenience.
A Puja season gift
The Hemanta Mukhopadhyay–Beleghata extension will link the Beleghata–Kavi Subhash corridor with the Sealdah South suburban network via New Garia, enabling smoother travel for lakhs of passengers. With this, Durga Puja pandal-hopping is set to become easier than ever, as commuters can bypass congested roads and travel comfortably by Metro and suburban trains.
Transforming mobility in Kolkata
The commissioning of these three new sections marks one of the largest Metro inaugurations in Kolkata’s history. It is expected to revolutionise urban mobility, empowering millions of commuters with faster, reliable and eco-friendly travel options.
For the City of Joy, this development is more than just an infrastructure boost — it is a leap forward towards seamless, modern and interconnected public transport that will redefine Kolkata’s commuting culture.
