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Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate three new routes of the Kolkata Metro on August 22. Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has extended an invitation to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, sharing detailed updates on the ongoing railway projects and their funding in the state-a factor that may influence her participation in the event.
The newly introduced metro corridors aim to significantly improve urban connectivity in Kolkata. The completion of the Green Line's final stretch from Sealdah to Esplanade will establish a crucial link. The Orange Line will be extended from Hemanta Mukhopadhyay (Ruby Crossing) to Beleghata, adding four new stations. Similarly, the Yellow Line will connect Noapara to Jai Hind (Biman Bandar/Airport), introducing four additional stations and offering passengers a direct metro route to the airport.
Railway Projects and Financial Commitments
Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasized the Centre's strong focus on enhancing railway services and infrastructure across West Bengal. At present, projects worth ₹83,765 crore are underway, with ₹13,955 crore earmarked in the latest budget. Additionally, 101 railway stations are being redeveloped, while the state's network already operates nine Vande Bharat trains and two Amrit Bharat trains.
Ahead of the metro inauguration, Sumeet Singhal, Commissioner of Railway Safety, conducted an inspection of the Yellow Line stretch from Dum Dum Cantonment to Jai Hind Bimanbandar. He reviewed the tracks, rolling stock, and safety mechanisms, expressing satisfaction with their preparedness. Once given the final clearance, this service is expected to bring a major transformation to Kolkata's urban transit system.
Political Reactions and Challenges
The invitation has sparked mixed political reactions. TMC spokesperson Arup Chakraborty accused the central government of inadequate budgetary support, claiming that several metro projects remain stalled due to "insufficient allocations and the Centre's neglect."
On the other hand, BJP state president Sukanta Majumdar highlighted land acquisition hurdles as a key factor behind project delays. He remarked that "nearly 43 projects in Bengal are stuck because of land-related issues," and further alleged that limited cooperation from local authorities has hindered metro expansion near Chingrighata.
This development comes shortly after Prime Minister Modi's visit to Durgapur in July, where he unveiled projects worth more than ₹5,000 crore. Focus now shifts to whether Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will attend the August 22 inauguration ceremony.
