Good news for passengers: Indian Railways approves Rs 895 crore projects; Kolkata Metro to run every 2.5 minutes

India’s rail network is set for a major capacity boost as Indian Railways has approved projects worth Rs 895.30 crore to upgrade metro systems and rebuild ageing bridge infrastructure. The decision is expected to significantly improve metro frequency in Kolkata and strengthen freight movement across key industrial routes, especially in high-density coal corridors.

A major chunk of Rs 671.72 crore will be used to upgrade the North-South Corridor of Kolkata Metro, while Rs 223.58 crore has been sanctioned for rebuilding a critical railway bridge over the Damodar river under South Eastern Railway. These projects are part of a broader push towards capacity augmentation, safety enhancement and future-ready rail infrastructure.

Kolkata Metro upgrade

The biggest takeaway for daily commuters is faster and more frequent trains, backed by a major power system overhaul. The project includes:

• 7 new traction substations worth Rs 291.06 crore
• Augmentation and upgradation of Auxiliary Substations (ASS) and Traction Substations (TSS)
• Power system upgrade from 11 kV to 33 kV across key stretches
• Strengthening of power supply between Esplanade and Kavi Subhash (New Garia)
• Additional upgrades for elevated sections between Netaji and Kavi Subhash stations

The Kolkata Metro system, built in the 1980s, was originally designed to support train operations at a frequency of about five minutes. However, with rising passenger demand, the requirement for higher frequency operations has increased significantly.

With the approved upgrade, the metro will be able to operate at a 2.5-minute headway, effectively doubling line capacity and significantly improving service frequency. This means:

• Shorter waiting time for commuters
• Less crowding during peak hours
• Smoother and more predictable travel experience
• Improved reliability of services

The upgrade also addresses ageing infrastructure. Existing substations and equipment are reaching capacity limits and face maintenance challenges due to the non-availability of spare parts. The new system will ensure a stable and reliable power supply and reduce operational disruptions.

Damodar bridge project

The second project focuses on rebuilding Bridge No. 520 (UP and DN lines) between Madhukunda and Damodar, along with yard remodelling and track works in the approach sections under South Eastern Railway.

The existing Damodar bridge - constructed in 1903 (down line) and 1965 (up line) has aged significantly and is showing signs of structural stress, making reconstruction of its foundation and substructure necessary. This route connects:

• Asansol
• Tatanagar

It forms part of a key Dedicated Freight Corridor feeder route and coal corridor (Sini–Purulia–Asansol), carrying heavy traffic of around 67 GMT. Once rebuilt, the project will:

• Improve safety and structural stability
• Enhance reliability of freight operations
• Reduce delays and maintenance disruptions
• Increase operational efficiency on a critical route

The redevelopment is also expected to boost industries in the Durgapur–Asansol belt, including units like IISCO and ACC, along with thermal power plants dependent on coal supply.

What it means for passengers?

The twin projects signal a strong push by Indian Railways towards modernisation, safety and capacity expansion.

For passengers:

• Faster metro services
• Reduced crowding
• Better reliability and comfort

For industry and freight:

• Stronger rail connectivity
• Improved efficiency in coal and cargo movement
• Better support for industrial growth