Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated India’s first underwater metro route in Kolkata on Wednesday, March 6. This significant milestone showcases India’s progress in the transportation infrastructure. The project of underwater metro tunnel is truly historic. In addition to this, PM Modi also laid the foundation stone for several connectivity projects totalling Rs 15,4000 crore. The tunnel under the Hooghly River in Kolkata will link Howrah Maidan and Esplanade. Notably, the tunnel’s depth of 33 metres below the surface sets is apart as a remarkable achievement.

Some highlights

•    The tunnel under the Hooghly River is India’s first underwater transport tunnel. It is located within the Howrah Maidan-Esplanade section of the Kolkata Metro. 

•    The tunnel is a crucial part of the East-West Metro project. It will connect the west banks to the east banks in Kolkata. The total length of the metro line is 16.15 km. 

•    Once operational, the metro line will be the first in India to run trains under the sea, offering a unique experience. 

•    The primary objective of the project is to address the traffic issues in Kolkata. It is a historic city with a rich heritage spanning over 300 years.

•    Kolkata Metro Rail Corporation Limited (KMRCL) has designed the metro line with 10.18 km of underground sections and 5.175 km of elevated sections. 

•    The metro will cover a distance of 520 metres under the Hooghly Rive in just 45 seconds. It will increase the efficiency of metro transportation. 

First metro system in India

India’s first metro system began in Kolkata, marking a significant milestone in the country’s transportation infrastructure. It was Asia’s fifth metro system. On 24th October 1984, Kolkata Metro was inaugurated. Initially, it covered a distance of 3.14 km with five stations connecting Esplanade and Netaji Bhawan. Over the years, the metro system has expanded significantly in India.