Kolkata is on the verge of a significant upgrade to its public transit network, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate three new Metro corridors on August 22, 2025. This expansion is expected to serve an additional 9.15 lakh commuters daily, with 366 new Metro train services set to make city travel faster and more convenient for millions. The inauguration of these new stretches is considered a “historic gift” before the city’s celebrated Durga Puja festivities.
The new Metro lines are designed to alleviate road congestion and provide seamless connectivity across the metropolis.
The three new lines are:
Green Line Extension
A 2.45 km extension from Esplanade to Sealdah. This is a game-changer for commuters traveling between the city’s two busiest railway hubs, Howrah and Sealdah. The journey, which can take up to 45 minutes by road, will be reduced to a swift 11-minute Metro ride.
Yellow Line
The 6.77 km route from Noapara to Jai Hind Airport will provide a crucial and comfortable link for air passengers and airport staff. With a direct interchange at Dum Dum Cantonment, the line will connect the airport to major railway stations and the rest of the city, with a travel time of just 30 minutes from Esplanade to the airport.
Orange Line Extension
The 4.4 km extension from Hemanta Mukhopadhyay to Beleghata will connect key areas such as Science City, hospitals, schools, and business centers, making travel between South and East Kolkata more efficient. A journey from Beleghata to Kavi Subhash will now take only 32 minutes, and passenger traffic on this line is projected to double.
More Services, Affordable Fares
The new lines will significantly increase the frequency of trains. The Green Line will operate 186 daily services, while the Orange and Yellow lines will have 60 and 120 services, respectively. This increased frequency is intended to reduce waiting times and offer a more reliable travel experience.