In Kolkata, West Bengal, PM Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the groundwork for a number of connectivity projects worth a combined Rs. 15,400 crores. This stretch demonstrates the technological prowess that went into its creation as well as the strategic significance of connecting two of Kolkata's busiest districts.
Connecting Howrah and Salt Lake, the twin cities of West Bengal's state capital, the metro route features three underground stations. Notably, it is anticipated to traverse a 520-meter stretch under the Hooghly river in a mere 45 seconds.
The inauguration ceremony, also attended by Bengal Governor Dr. CV Ananda Bose, and other top officials and dignitaries, follows the historic moment in April 2023 when the Kolkata Metro successfully ran a train through the underwater tunnel during trials, a first in India. In an interesting view, students from various schools could also be seen travelling on the inaugural metro.
The newly-constructed tunnel's lower section is positioned 26 meters below the river's surface, with trains set to operate 16 meters beneath the riverbed. This marks India's first transportation initiative featuring a metro train traversing beneath a river.
According to the Ministry of Railways, approximately 10.8 kilometers of the route will be subterranean, while 5.75 kilometers will be elevated on a viaduct. The ministry noted that this project will significantly alleviate traffic congestion in Kolkata.
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