August 22, 2025: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday officially inaugurated three new metro lines in Kolkata, including the city’s first direct metro connection to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport. The opening ceremony took place at Jessore Road station, where the Prime Minister signaled the start of operations by waving the green flag.
The newly launched routes are:
- Sealdah to Esplanade (Green Line Extension): This 2.45 km stretch completes the East-West Metro corridor and is expected to reduce travel time between Sealdah and Esplanade from approximately 40 minutes to just 11 minutes.
- Noapara to Jai Hind Bimanbandar (Yellow Line): Covering 6.77 km, this line offers the city’s first direct metro access to the airport, enabling smoother and faster transit for travelers.
- Hemanta Mukhopadhyay (Ruby Crossing) to Beleghata (Orange Line): This 4.39 km extension improves connectivity to Kolkata’s IT hub, benefiting daily commuters.
Together, these additions extend Kolkata’s metro network by 13.61 km, providing enhanced public transport options and easing road congestion in the city. Officials emphasized that the new lines would significantly improve travel efficiency for residents and visitors alike.
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi noted the importance of expanding urban transit networks to support city growth and accessibility. He highlighted the airport metro link as a key development for enhancing convenience for both domestic and international passengers.
The inauguration coincides with preparations for the Durga Puja festival, when the city experiences increased traffic and movement. Authorities expressed confidence that the new metro lines will offer timely relief to commuters during the busy festive season.
Kolkata Metro, gradually expanding over the years, now moves closer to establishing a well-connected urban network, linking major commercial, residential, and transport hubs across the city.
