KOLKATA (Metro Rail News): Kolkata Metro Blue Line is set for a major upgrade after the centre approved Rs 671.7 crore for improvement works on the corridor. The project will allow more trains to run at shorter gaps and higher speeds in the coming years. The Blue Line is Kolkata Metro’s busiest route. It carries around 6 lakh passengers every day. Officials said that the upgrade will reduce crowding and cut waiting time during peak hours.
Project Snapshoot
| Details | Information |
| Corridor | Kolkata Metro Blue Line |
| Upgrade cost | Rs 617.7 crore |
| Total Rail Project Approval | Rs 895.3 crore |
| Daily passengers | Around 6 lakh |
| Key Upgrade | Power system, CBTC (Communication-based train control) signaling, third rail replacement |
| Current Train Gap | 5 minute |
| Planned Train Gap | 2.5 minute |
The Blue Line started operations more than 40 years ago. It was originally designed for trains to run every few minutes. But passengers have increased sharply over the years. During busy hours, stations and trains often get overcrowded. Metro officials now want trains to run more frequently so passengers do not have to wait long.
Major upgrade planned
A large part of the project focuses on improving the power supply system. The work includes:
- Seven new traction substations worth Rs 297 crore
- Upgrade of old substations
- Power system upgrade from 11 KV to 33 KV
- Better power supply between Esplanade and new Garia
- Improvement work on elevated sections between Netaji and Kavi Subhas
Officials said that many old systems are reaching their limit and spare parts are becoming difficult to find. Metro Railway is also replacing the old steel third rail with aluminium phases. Officials mentioned that aluminium carries electricity better and reduces energy loss. This will help trains pick up speed faster and improve overall performance. Most underground sections are already covered under the second phase of work. The next phase will cover the elevated stretch between Tollygunge and New Garia.
An advanced signalling system is to come
The Blue Line currently uses the older TPWS signalling system. Now Metro Railway plans to introduce a more advanced CBTC system. This technology allows trains to safely run closer to each other. Officials also mentioned that the system can eventually support train gaps as low as 90 seconds.
At present, Trains on most parts of the Blue Line run at a top speed of 55 kmph. Only the Noapara to Dakshineswar section allows speeds up to 80 kmph. Metro Railway now plans to increase speeds on more parts of the corridor.
Kavi Subhas Station reconstruction
The Blue Line suffered a setback in July 2025 after cracks appeared on a platform at Kavi Subhas metro station. Since then, trains have been running only till the Shahid Khudiram metro station on the southern side. Officials said reconstruction work at Kavi Subhas station will begin soon.
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