Kolkata’s Bowbazar Metro Link Set to Open Before Prime Minister’s Visit

Kolkata is on the cusp of a significant upgrade to its metro network, with the Bowbazar segment of the East–West Corridor expected to commence passenger services this Friday, July 18, 2025. The opening is anticipated to coincide with Prime Minister Modi’s scheduled visit, effectively completing a vital 2.5 km link and enabling seamless connectivity from Howrah Maidan to Sealdah and beyond.

Metro authorities confirm that both the Esplanade–Sealdah section and the Bowbazar stretch have successfully passed comprehensive testing procedures. Regulatory approval was granted by the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) in April, clearing the way for full commercial operation. The East–West Metro, often referred to as Kolkata’s Green Line, spans 16.5 km from Howrah Maidan to Salt Lake Sector V. Since March 2024, it has operated in segments, but the final Bowbazar stretch has now been completed, allowing for uninterrupted travel across the city’s east-west axis.

With this extension operational, travel times are expected to be significantly reduced: from Howrah to Sealdah in approximately 20 minutes, and from the city centre to Salt Lake in around 35–40 minutes, much faster than surface transport options. The fare for the entire journey will be a flat ₹30, offering an economical and eco-friendly alternative for daily commuters.

This milestone extends beyond mere convenience. Experts highlight that an unbroken metro corridor helps evenly distribute passenger flow, alleviates road congestion, and advances Kolkata’s urban sustainability objectives. The completion of underground tunnelling beneath the Hooghly River and the challenging Bowbazar zone reflects advanced engineering triumphing over subsidence issues and ground stability concerns.

Years of delays caused by ground instability and water ingress in Bowbazar delayed the final stages of construction. Multiple safety inspections, tunnel reinforcements, and structurally sensitive interventions were necessary before the CRS approval. Community concerns were addressed through innovative construction techniques that balanced safety with heritage preservation.

While the Prime Minister’s official itinerary has not yet confirmed an inauguration, reports suggest that the Ministry of Railways is considering a joint opening event during his visit. Hosting the launch during such a high-profile occasion would underscore the government’s commitment to Kolkata’s integrated transport future and India’s broader urban low-carbon transition.

Following the launch, Kolkata Metro officials will closely oversee operations, managing crowd control and ensuring service reliability. Final preparations include emergency protocols, passenger awareness campaigns, and improvements to last-mile connectivity in collaboration with municipal transport agencies.

The completion of the Bowbazar section marks the conclusion of a long-standing chapter in the city’s infrastructure development, delivering tangible benefits to millions of commuters while reinforcing Kolkata’s position as a sustainable, modern metropolis. With all regulatory approvals in place, the focus now shifts to operational readiness—transforming anticipation into reality.

As Kolkata’s Bowbazar link prepares for its debut, transit enthusiasts and everyday commuters alike look forward to smoother journeys, reduced travel times, and a greener metro experience—just in time for a historic week in the city’s transport evolution.