PM Modi Inaugurates ₹5,200 Crore Development Projects in Kolkata

Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated multiple development projects worth over ₹5,200 crore in Kolkata, West Bengal, on 22 August 2025. Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister highlighted Kolkata’s historical significance and its role in shaping India’s economic future. He emphasised that 21st-century India requires modern, integrated transport systems, and Kolkata stands as a model of this transformation.

Major Projects Inaugurated

Metro Network Expansion

The Prime Minister inaugurated three newly constructed metro sections in Kolkata, marking a significant leap in urban connectivity,

• Noapara–Jai Hind Bimanbandar Metro Service
• Improves direct access to Kolkata Airport.
• Sealdah–Esplanade Metro Service
• Reduces travel time between the two points from 40 minutes to just 11 minutes.
• Beleghata–Hemanta Mukhopadhyay Metro Section
• Enhances connectivity with Kolkata’s IT hub.

With these additions, about 14 km of new lines and 7 new metro stations are being integrated into Kolkata Metro, benefiting lakhs of daily commuters.

Howrah Metro Subway

• A newly constructed subway at Howrah Metro Station was inaugurated, improving multi-modal connectivity.
• Enables faster interchange between Eastern Railway and South Eastern Railway.
• Reduces long detours and waiting times for passengers.

Kona Expressway

• The PM laid the foundation stone for the 7.2 km long six-lane elevated Kona Expressway, worth ₹1,200 crore.
• Connects Howrah, surrounding rural areas, and Kolkata.
• Expected to save travel hours and boost trade, commerce, and tourism.
• Enhances port connectivity, strengthening regional logistics.

Background & Significance

• Kolkata Metro is India’s first metro system and continues to expand to meet modern demands.
• The new projects reflect the government’s vision of “Ease of Living” and “Ease of Travel”.
• Enhanced infrastructure is expected to strengthen trade routes, reduce travel times, and boost employment, commerce, and tourism.