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Kolkata's metro network is expanding once again! The extension of the Metro Railway's Purple Line to Eden Gardens has been approved, with an additional investment of Rs 1,000 crore. This new addition will extend the line by 1.6 km, increasing the total project cost to Rs 10,360 crore. The Eden Gardens station will be located near Gate 1 of the iconic cricket stadium and close to Mohun Bagan football ground, making it a vital stop for sports fans and daily commuters. The extension will also improve connectivity to key metro lines and important locations in the city.
Better Connectivity for Daily Commuters
The extension to Eden Gardens will be a major benefit for daily travelers, especially those from Joka, Behala, Kidderpore, and Ekbalpore. Many residents from these areas commute daily to the central business district, and this extension will make their journey much easier.
The Purple Line was originally planned to run 14.4 km from Joka to Esplanade. With the extension, the total length will now be 16 km, with 13 stations along the route. The project includes both elevated and underground sections, ensuring better connectivity across the city.
Underground Extension and Construction Plans
The underground section of the Purple Line from Mominpore to Esplanade, which was earlier planned to be 5 km, will now be 6.6 km due to the additional stretch to Eden Gardens. While officials have not yet shared full details on the construction process, they have mentioned that tunnel boring machines (TBMs) may be used for the 2.7 km section from Kidderpore to Park Street. The remaining part may be constructed using the cut-and-cover method, but final decisions will be made as the project progresses.
Challenges in the Project
Despite its many benefits, the project faces some challenges. The construction of Kidderpore station has become a concern due to the lack of available land at the Alipore Bodyguard Lines. However, metro officials remain hopeful and insist that these issues should not delay the progress of the extension. They believe that the Purple Line will play a crucial role in improving Kolkata's transport system, and all efforts will be made to overcome any difficulties.
A Boost for Sports Fans and the City's Transport Network
The Eden Gardens station will serve thousands of sports fans who visit the area for cricket and football matches. Additionally, it will improve travel for people working near Strand Road, Babughat, Calcutta High Court, and BBD Bag. With easy connections to the North-South (Blue Line) and East-West (Green Line) metros, the Purple Line extension will offer a more seamless and efficient travel experience.
The approval of the Purple Line extension to Eden Gardens marks a major step forward in Kolkata's metro expansion. With better connectivity, faster travel, and improved access to key locations, this project will make daily commuting easier for thousands of residents. Despite some construction challenges, the metro authorities are confident that the extension will be completed successfully, benefiting both commuters and the city's growing metro network.
