Trial runs commence on Kolkata Metro's Purple Line Extension

Kolkata, India (Metro Rail Today): Metro Railway, Kolkata, the governing body of the Kolkata Metro Rail Project, marked a significant milestone as trial runs kicked off on the Purple Line's extension from Taratala to Majerhat. The 1.25 km stretch adds another dimension to Kolkata's burgeoning metro network, enhancing connectivity in the vibrant city.

This development follows a year and two months after the inauguration of the first section of the Purple Line, a 6.49 km elevated route connecting Joka – Taratala with six stations along Diamond Harbour Road in November 2022.

Construction and Features

The viaduct for the Taratala – Majerhat section was skillfully constructed by Simplex Infrastructures under a contract awarded in 2011. It includes a new elevated station at Majerhat, crafted by GPT Infraprojects, strategically positioned above the seven tracks of the Indian Railways, linking Sealdah to Budge Budge.

The inaugural run to Majerhat took a mere 13 minutes, focusing primarily on ensuring Schedule of Dimensions (SOD) clearances and evaluating the train's interaction with the civil structure. The objective was to identify and eliminate any potential physical obstructions along the way.

Trial Run Details

The AC trial rake (MR-417) commenced its journey from Taratala station at 12:16 hrs, covering the 1.25 km distance to reach Majerhat station at 12:19 hrs. The return journey started from Majerhat at 12:43 hrs, reaching Taratala at 12:46 hrs. Throughout the trial run, the rake achieved a maximum speed of 50 km/hr, ensuring a thorough assessment of the new section.

Upcoming Testing and Developments

In the upcoming weeks, the focus will shift to testing various subsystems, including the signaling system. The train's response to different speeds and braking, along with the behavior of the track system, will be closely monitored. This meticulous testing phase aims to ensure the seamless integration of the new section into the existing metro infrastructure.

Next Steps: Majerhat – Mominpur Section

Anticipating further expansion, the next section in line for public access is the Majerhat – Mominpur stretch. Spanning 1.326 km, this elevated section, currently under construction by GPT Infraprojects, holds a promise of enhanced connectivity. The ongoing efforts align with Kolkata's vision for a comprehensive metro network, with Larsen & Toubro already making strides in preparing the ground for the Purple Line's eventual integration with Line-1 (Blue Line) and Line-2 (Green Line) at Esplanade.

As Kolkata Metro continues to evolve, these progressive developments underscore the city's commitment to modern, efficient, and interconnected public transportation.