PM Modi To Unveil India’s Maiden Underwater Metro Route In Kolkata Tomorrow
KOLKATA: On March 6th, 2024, Kolkata will witness a historic moment as Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially inaugurates the nation’s first-ever underwater metro section.
This remarkable feat of engineering, spanning 16.6 kilometers underneath the Hooghly River, marks a significant leap forward in India’s transportation infrastructure.
Connecting Two Cities
The underwater metro will bridge the gap between Kolkata and its twin city, Howrah, by establishing a direct link with six stations, three of which lie underground.
The inaugural ceremony, led by the Prime Minister, promises to be a grand affair, attracting dignitaries, officials, and the public, who will have the opportunity to experience the marvel of underwater travel the same day.
Highlights of the Project:
First-of-its-kind: This underwater section marks a pioneering achievement in India’s engineering landscape.
Deepest Station: The Howrah Maidan station holds the distinction of being the deepest metro station in the country.
Submerged Passage: The 4.8-kilometer underwater stretch between Howrah Maidan and Esplanade navigates beneath the mighty Hooghly River.
Swift Passage: Passengers can expect to traverse the 520-meter section under the river in just 45 seconds.
Phased Completion: While the Howrah Maidan-Esplanade section marks the first phase, the complete East-West Metro corridor, connecting Salt Lake Sector V and Howrah Maidan, is expected to be operational by June or July.
Automated Operations: The metro utilizes a state-of-the-art Automatic Train Operation (ATO) system, ensuring smooth and efficient movement.
Underground Network: Out of the total 16.6 kilometers, a significant portion (10.8 kilometers) runs underground, including the underwater section.
A Global Spectacle
The much-anticipated inauguration ceremony on March 6th signifies not only a milestone for India’s transportation sector but also a testament to its innovative spirit.
As the world watches with anticipation, Kolkata prepares to dive into the future of public transportation with this groundbreaking underwater metro service.