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The Kolkata Metro has announced an exciting plan to extend the Joka-Esplanade Purple Line to Eden Gardens, adding an extra 1.6 km to its route. This development aims to improve public transport in the city, making daily commutes and visits to popular destinations like cricket and football grounds more convenient. Once approved by the Railway Board, the extension will connect areas such as Strand Road, Babughat, Calcutta High Court, and BBD Bag directly to Eden Gardens via a dedicated metro station with a walkway.
The Purple Line currently spans 14.4 km, with eight elevated and four underground stations. The operational section from Joka to Majerhat is elevated, while the underground section begins beyond Mominpur and includes important stops like Khidderpore, Victoria, Park Street, and Esplanade. With Eden Gardens as the new terminal underground station, the metro line will further extend its reach and serve more commuters efficiently.
This extension prioritizes not just connectivity but also environmental sustainability. By shifting the underground crossover point closer to Strand Road, the project will save several trees near Manohar Das Tarag that would otherwise have been cut down. This decision highlights the metro authorities' commitment to balancing urban development with environmental preservation.
The Esplanade metro station is set to remain a key hub in the network. As part of a larger plan, it will be integrated into a mega metro hub featuring a commercial plaza and underground parking. The proposed 1.6-km tunnel to Eden Gardens will extend the Joka-Esplanade corridor, solidifying Esplanade's position as a strategic connection point.
The extension to Eden Gardens is expected to significantly boost Kolkata's public transport system. With direct metro access to areas like the High Court, Millennium Park, and Eden Gardens, commuters will enjoy smoother and faster travel. This move is expected to benefit both passengers and the Metro Railway, which already caters to around 7.5 lakh passengers daily.
Previously, plans for a subway connecting Eden Gardens to Esplanade required a lengthy underground walk for visitors to sports venues. The new plan for a transportation tunnel simplifies access, ensuring convenience for all.
The Joka-Esplanade Purple Line extension to Eden Gardens marks a significant improvement in Kolkata's urban transit system. By providing better connectivity to key locations and preserving green spaces, this initiative is a win-win for the city's residents and its environment. Once completed, it will transform the way people travel across Kolkata, making public transport more accessible and eco-friendly.
