The inauguration of India’s first metro rail tunnel under a significant stretch of water took place with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, almost forty years after the commencement of metro services in the country.
The tunnel links the twin cities of Kolkata and Howrah, separated by the Hooghly River in the eastern state of West Bengal.
In 1984, Kolkata became the first city in India to have a functioning metro system.
Once it is fully operational for passengers later this month, trains will travel under a 520-meter river section in only 45 seconds, improving commuting for residents in both cities.
Metro rail services can now be accessed in 15 cities nationwide, with the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation operating a vast 393km network in the national capital region. Delhi has constructed elevated metro sections over the Yamuna River, a feat not possible in Kolkata due to space constraints.
“The underwater subway was considered a safer and more cost-effective choice for the railways in comparison to constructing an elevated portion,” stated Kaushik Mitra, the chief public relations officer of the Eastern Railways, in an interview with The Independent.
He mentioned that the underwater metro rail service will be available to the public soon.
এই প্রকল্পে যাঁরা কাজ করেছেন তাঁরা এবং এই তরুণদের ধন্যবাদার্হ সঙ্গ পাওয়ায় মেট্রো সফরটি স্মরণীয় হয়ে রইল। হুগলী নদীর নীচে সুড়ঙ্গ দিয়েও যাতায়াত করলাম আমরা। pic.twitter.com/o13N2by8j6
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 6, 2024
An official release stated that the 4.8km stretch of the East-West Metro in West Bengal was constructed at a cost of Rs 49.65bn (£470m). The metro station at Howrah is located 30 meters below the ground level, making it the deepest one.
According to Mr. Mitra, walkways have been built on both sides of the tunnel, with connections to ventilation shafts every 25 meters. In case of an emergency, passengers can exit through these shafts.
PM Mr. Modi recently experienced the first underwater metro ride, accompanied by a group of school students during his visit to West Bengal to support the upcoming general elections.
A video captured Mr. Modi engaging with the school children seated next to him inside the rail coach. “This will enhance the communication system and alleviate traffic congestion,” Mr. Modi remarked, describing it as a significant moment for the nation.
The rail authorities have added blue lights to the inner walls of the tunnels to create an underwater ambiance.
The project’s construction commenced in 2017.
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