Kolkata Metro runs first underwater passenger trial run

Kolkata Metro Rail Corporation (KMRC) on Thursday conducted a trial run for the East-West Metro through the tunnel under Hooghly river with passengers on board

The commuters comprised KMRC employees and representatives from the media. A Metro train with six coaches ferried them from Howrah Maidan to Esplanade and back

Trial runs for the underwater rail journey from Howrah Maidan to Esplanade will continue for the next seven months, after which regular services on the route will begin The underground route is 4.8 km and once this stretch opens, Howrah Maidan Metro station, at 33 metres below the surface, will be the deepest Metro station in the country. The Metro is expected to cover a 520 metre stretch under the Hooghly river in 45 seconds

The route model on display

Only four stations on the route -- Esplanade, Mahakaran, Howrah and Howrah Maidan — are currently ready

Work is in progress at other stations and this green line is expected to operational by the end of 2023

During the construction of the tunnel, KMRC faced several challenges as Brabourne Road in Burrabazar is a busy area. Also, many residents of old houses had to be relocated to hotels while the underground work was in progress

The coaches have several safety features like fire extinguishers, smoke detectors and CCTV cameras. There’s also provision for physically challenged passengers

The coaches also come with charging points. A system has been installed through which passengers can talk to the driver. First-aid will be provided on board if needed

A bird’s-eye view of the Howrah Maidan Metro station with the Howrah bridge in the background

KMRC employees were on board for the first time. They were elated to be a part of the historic journey of India’s first underwater Metro Debabrata Nandi, chief consultant-finance at KMRC, was proud to be a part of the historic ride.