Kolkata Metro gets CMRS nod to open Esplanade-Sealdah stretch of East-West Corridor

Kolkata, India (Metro Rail Today): In a major boost to urban connectivity in the "City of Joy," Kolkata Metro has received the much-awaited authorization from the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) to open the crucial Esplanade-Sealdah section of the East-West Metro Corridor. This development marks the final milestone in completing the 16.6-km Green Line that links Howrah Maidan to Salt Lake Sector V.

The approval paves the way for full-scale commercial operations across the entire corridor, seamlessly connecting India's two busiest rail terminals—Howrah and Sealdah. The East-West line, intersecting with the North-South Corridor at Esplanade, is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion and reduce travel time across the metropolis.

The now-complete 2.6-km underground stretch between Esplanade and Sealdah had long posed engineering challenges, especially as it passes through the subsidence-prone Bowbazar area. This section underwent a rigorous inspection by CMRS official Sumeet Singhal on Sunday, where all critical infrastructure—including tracks, tunnels, ventilation systems, fire safety, and emergency features—were assessed. Speed trials were also conducted, with trains running at 80 kmph to ensure operational readiness.

"The Commissioner expressed satisfaction with the safety and technical standards of the section," a Metro Railway spokesperson confirmed. Officials from Kolkata Metro Rail Corporation (KMRC), including Managing Director Anuj Mittal, accompanied the CMRS during the inspection.

The successful completion of the Esplanade-Sealdah link is a tribute to the resilience and dedication of KMRC’s tunneling teams, particularly during the difficult COVID-19 period. Despite multiple delays and technical hurdles, the completion of this central segment unlocks the full potential of the East-West Metro for daily commuters.

With the Green Line now fully connected from Howrah Maidan to Sector V, Kolkata's metro network takes a major leap forward in providing faster, safer, and more sustainable public transportation.