kolkata

IIE DIGITAL DESK : Kolkata, April 28, 2025 — Commuters across Kolkata faced significant disruptions on Monday morning as metro services experienced irregularities on both up and down lines. The primary cause was the scheduled suspension of the entire Green Line (East-West Corridor) for the third consecutive day, affecting the stretch between Howrah Maidan and Salt Lake Sector V. This suspension was implemented to facilitate the final phase of testing for the Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) system and to conduct inspections related to the commissioning of the Esplanade-Sealdah section.  

The Green Line, a crucial 16.6 km corridor connecting the eastern and western parts of the city, has been partially operational in two segments: Howrah Maidan to Esplanade and Sealdah to Salt Lake Sector V. The current suspension aimed to integrate these segments by completing the CBTC system testing and obtaining the necessary safety clearances.  

While the Blue Line (Dakshineswar to Kavi Subhash) continued to operate normally, the increased passenger load due to the Green Line suspension led to overcrowding and delays. The Purple Line (Joka to Majerhat) and the Orange Line (Kavi Subhash to Hemanta Mukhopadhyay) resumed their regular services on Monday, providing some relief to commuters.  

The inter-connecting subway between Sealdah Metro station and the Sealdah station of Eastern Railway also remained closed during this period, further complicating travel plans for many. 

The Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) conducted a thorough inspection of the Esplanade-Sealdah section on Sunday, April 27. Pending approval from the CRS, the full Green Line corridor is expected to become operational soon, promising improved connectivity across Kolkata. 

Metro authorities have urged passengers to stay updated through official channels and plan their journeys accordingly, as normal services on the Green Line are anticipated to resume shortly following the completion of all necessary tests and approvals.