Metro trains in India revolutionized urban travel by offering a fast, safe and modern transportation system. It was introduced to reduce traffic problems and make daily commuting easier for people living in busy cities. This marked the beginning of a new era in public transport in the country.
When the Kolkata Metro started in 1984, it became a turning point in India’s urban transport system. It brought a faster and more convenient way of travel, changing how people moved around the city and setting the stage for metro networks in other Indian cities.
India’s first metro train was launched in Kolkata on October 24, 1984. The initial stretch was a short 3.4 km route between Esplanade and Bhowanipur (now Netaji Bhawan). It was the country’s first operational rapid transit system, offering a solution to the growing traffic problems in urban areas.
The idea of a metro system in Kolkata was first discussed in the 1920s. However, serious efforts began only in the 1970s, when the Prime Minister Indira Gandhi laid the foundation stone on December 29, 1972. Construction faced many challenges, including funding shortages and logistical difficulties, but the dream finally became a reality in 1984.
When it began, the Kolkata Metro covered a small stretch with just five stations. Despite being a small start, it provided a much-needed alternative for daily commuters. The public response was very positive, and the service quickly became popular for its reliability and speed.
Over time, the Kolkata Metro expanded rapidly. From the original 3.4 km, the metro system now covers nearly 60 km, connecting many parts of the city. One of its remarkable achievements is the underwater metro line beneath the Hooghly River, connecting Howrah and Kolkata.
The Kolkata Metro has become an essential part of the city’s daily life, helping millions of people commute everyday. It also inspired other cities in India to build their own metro systems, such as the Delhi Metro and Bengaluru Metro.
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