Modi Unveils India's First Underwater Metro Route in Kolkata Alongside ₹15,400 Crore Worth Projects

India’s First Underwater Metro Route in Kolkata:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a historic visit to Kolkata on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in India’s infrastructure development. Inaugurating the country’s first metro line running beneath a river, along with laying the foundation stone for various connectivity projects worth Rs 15,400 crore, Modi emphasized the government’s commitment to enhancing transportation networks and urban mobility.

Underwater Metro:

The highlight of the event was the unveiling of India’s maiden metro line running beneath a mighty river – the Hooghly. This groundbreaking project is part of Kolkata Metro’s East-West corridor, covering a distance of 4.8 km from Howrah Maidan to Esplanade. Three out of six stations will be underground, connecting the twin cities of Howrah and Salt Lake. Notably, the metro will traverse a 520-meter stretch under the Hooghly in a mere 45 seconds, showcasing remarkable engineering prowess.

Connectivity Projects:

In addition to the underwater metro, PM Modi laid the foundation stone for multiple connectivity projects aimed at bolstering urban transportation across the nation. These projects include the expansion of metro services in cities like Kochi, Agra, Meerut, and Pune, along with the Rapid Rail Transit System (RRTS) section in Meerut. The initiation of these projects underscores the government’s vision to modernize public transit systems, easing commuter congestion and enhancing connectivity.

A boost for Kolkata’s infrastructure!

Here are highlights from the interaction earlier today during the metro journey. pic.twitter.com/OU6FahtN3w

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 6, 2024

Inauguration Ceremony:

The inauguration ceremony witnessed the presence of top officials, dignitaries, and enthusiastic commuters eager to witness history in the making. Prime Minister Modi, accompanied by school children, took the inaugural ride on the underwater metro, symbolizing a journey towards progress and connectivity. His interaction with passengers and metro staff exemplified the government’s people-centric approach towards infrastructure development.

Significance and Future Prospects:

The inauguration of the underwater metro and connectivity projects signifies a significant leap in India’s infrastructure landscape, reflecting the nation’s growing capabilities in executing ambitious ventures. Beyond immediate benefits, these initiatives promise to catalyze economic growth, enhance urban mobility, and foster inclusive development. As India continues to embark on the path of progress, such transformative projects serve as catalysts for a brighter, more connected future.

Conclusion:

Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Kolkata and the inauguration of India’s first underwater metro underscore a monumental stride towards modernizing urban transportation and connectivity infrastructure. With a firm commitment to innovation and development, these initiatives not only redefine India’s urban landscape but also pave the way for a more accessible, sustainable, and prosperous future. As the nation celebrates these milestones, it reaffirms its position as a global leader in infrastructure innovation and inclusive growth.