Metro Expansion Boosts Urban Connectivity
PM Modi began his visit by traveling on the Kolkata Metro from Noapara to Jai Hind Biman Bandar, interacting with commuters and emphasizing how modernized transport is transforming the city’s daily life. He noted that 14 kilometers of new metro lines and seven new stations are being added to the network, linking key hubs including Howrah, Sealdah, and Kolkata Airport.
The expansion, he said, is part of India’s growing metro footprint. While the total metro route length was only 250 kilometers before 2014, it has now crossed 1,000 kilometers nationwide</strong. “India is now proud to have the world’s third largest metro network,” the Prime Minister remarked.
Kona Expressway and Highway Development
The Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone for the six-lane elevated Kona Expressway, a crucial link that will improve access to Kolkata Port and strengthen regional trade. The project is expected to ease congestion, reduce travel time, and boost logistics efficiency. Modi highlighted that in the past 11 years, several highway projects have been completed in West Bengal, with many more underway.
“The Kona Expressway will not only decongest Kolkata’s traffic but also enhance the state’s economic prospects,” he said, adding that improved connectivity forms the backbone of West Bengal’s future growth.
Railway Electrification and New Services
The Prime Minister announced that West Bengal has achieved 100% railway electrification, joining a select group of states to complete this milestone. He also flagged off a new MEMU train between Purulia and Howrah, fulfilling a long-pending demand of the people. Currently, the state operates nine Vande Bharat Express trains and two Amrit Bharat Express trains across different routes, offering faster, more comfortable journeys for passengers.
Seamless Multimodal Transport
PM Modi underlined the importance of developing 21st century transport for 21st century India. He said the government’s aim is to provide seamless connectivity between metro, rail, road, and airports. The integration of Howrah and Sealdah stations with the metro has already reduced travel time between key transit points from over an hour to just a few minutes. Similarly, the new subway at Howrah Station ensures smoother passenger interchange.
“From now, Kolkata Airport is directly connected to the metro, making it easier for citizens to reach from different parts of the city,” Modi added.
Government’s Vision for West Bengal
Highlighting the broader vision, the Prime Minister said the Centre is committed to West Bengal’s growth. Projects in urban mobility, railway electrification, and highway development are expected to improve quality of life while creating opportunities for sustainable economic progress. He described Kolkata as a city that represents both India’s historical legacy and its future aspirations.
Modi concluded his address by extending best wishes to the people of West Bengal and said that a detailed discussion on the state’s development would continue in his upcoming public meeting in the region.