kolkata

IIE DIGITAL DESK ; Kolkata, June 19: The unprecedented move aimed at ensuring smooth public mobility during the International Yoga Day celebrations, the Kolkata Metro Railway Authority has announced that metro services across key corridors will begin as early as 4 AM this Sunday, instead of the usual 9 AM start on a typical Sunday. The decision has been taken in view of large-scale participation expected at the main Yoga Day event in the city, along with the scheduling of the national NEET examination on the same day, prompting the need for additional transport support.

The Kolkata Metro Railway, special arrangements have been made across the Blue Line, Green Line, and Yellow Line to manage the anticipated surge in passenger movement. Authorities stated that the early morning services are specifically designed to facilitate commuters heading towards the Red Road area, where the central International Yoga Day programme will be held. The metro network is expected to play a crucial role in ensuring timely and congestion-free travel for participants and examination candidates alike.

The Blue Line, which runs between Dakshineswar and Kavi Subhash, a total of 214 metro services will be operated on the day. This includes 107 up and 107 down services, maintaining a balanced frequency in both directions. Between 4 AM and 8 AM, trains will run at an interval of 15 minutes in both directions, ensuring early morning commuters can access uninterrupted services. After 8 AM, operations will transition into the regular Sunday schedule as per standard timetables.

The Green Line, connecting Salt Lake Sector V to Sealdah and Howrah Maidan to Esplanade, will also witness enhanced operations. A total of 173 metro services have been scheduled, comprising 87 up and 86 down trains. Between 4 AM and 9 AM, trains will operate at intervals of 15 minutes and 10 minutes depending on route demand and operational feasibility. Officials have indicated that this line is expected to bear significant passenger load due to its connectivity with major commercial and residential hubs across the city.

The Yellow Line, operating between Noapara and Barasat, will see an increase in service frequency. On this special day, 112 metro trains will be in operation, with 56 up and 56 down services. This marks a noticeable rise compared to a typical Sunday schedule, which usually consists of around 78 services. The increased frequency is aimed at accommodating both Yoga Day participants and NEET aspirants travelling across northern suburban stretches of the city.

Metro authorities have clarified that while the morning schedule has been advanced and intensified, there will be no changes to the last train timings on any of the three corridors. The final metro services will continue to operate as per the existing timetable, ensuring consistency for late-evening commuters. Officials also assured that adequate staff deployment, crowd management systems, and safety protocols will be in place throughout the day to handle the higher-than-usual passenger volume.

The decision has been widely viewed as a proactive step by the transport authorities, reflecting the growing importance of coordinated urban mobility planning during large public events. With Kolkata set to host thousands of participants for International Yoga Day and thousands more appearing for competitive examinations, the metro network is expected to serve as the backbone of city transportation on Sunday.

Authorities have urged commuters to plan their journeys in advance and make full use of the early morning services to avoid congestion during peak hours. They have also appealed for cooperation from passengers to ensure smooth operations throughout the day.

The special schedule underscores the Kolkata Metro’s increasing role in supporting both civic events and public needs, especially during high-demand situations, reinforcing its position as one of the city’s most critical transport lifelines.