Kolkata Metro's Purple Line Set To Launch Soon As Safety Inspection Begins, Aiming To Reduce Traffic Congestion In Southern City

Kolkata’s Joka to Majerhat section of the Metro’s Purple Line is on the verge of a major technological leap, with the Communication Based Train Control (CBTC) signalling system undergoing a crucial safety inspection, The Telegraph reported.

On Saturday (22 March), Sumit Singhal, Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) for Metro and NF Circle, conducted a comprehensive review of the CBTC system, a prerequisite for public commissioning.

The inspection commenced at Joka Depot, where key infrastructure, including the car shed, rolling stock, and maintenance facilities, was meticulously examined.

Singhal then travelled along the Joka-Majerhat stretch aboard a metro rake to assess train operations under the CBTC system, which facilitates driverless or semi-automated services.

The inspection concluded at Majerhat station, with a detailed evaluation of the Operation Control Centre (OCC).

The CRS was accompanied by senior officials, including Anuj Mittal, Principal Chief Engineer (PCE), other high-ranking Metro Railway personnel, and Amit Tandon, ED/Metro from Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL).

For years, residents of Behala and surrounding areas have endured traffic congestion and unreliable road transport to reach Kolkata’s central business district.

The operationalisation of the Joka-Majerhat metro stretch is expected to provide seamless connectivity to south Kolkata, dramatically reducing travel time.

With future extensions towards Esplanade and BBD Bag, the corridor will be integrated into Kolkata’s broader metro network, ensuring a smooth transit to the heart of the city.

The implementation of CBTC-based signalling will further enhance safety and efficiency, making Kolkata’s metro more advanced, reliable, and future-ready.

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