Kolkata's long-awaited metro connectivity to the airport is set to become a reality, with trial runs scheduled for December 2024 and the 7-km Noapara to Jai Hind (Airport) link expected to be operational by March 2025, according to Metro Railway. This segment is part of Phase I of the Yellow Line, which will eventually connect Barasat to Kolkata.

Metro Railway General Manager P. Uday Kumar Reddy, during a site meeting, confirmed the timeline and emphasised readiness for trial runs along the 4-km Dum Dum Cantonment to Jai Hind section. The earlier tested 3-km Noapara to Dum Dum Cantonment stretch has already received commercial clearance from the Commission of Railway Safety (CRS). The Phase I extension to the airport marks a significant milestone in the city's metro development.

Key progress includes completed staircases, platform flooring, and other infrastructure at Jai Hind station, with travelator installations set to begin soon. Around 250 fire doors are being installed to meet safety standards, and fire safety approvals from the state fire services department are being pursued.

Once operational, this connectivity will allow seamless travel across three metro lines to reach the airport via the Noapara interchange. The Blue Line (New Garia-Dakshineswar) and its Esplanade interchange with the East-West Metro (Green Line) will enable smooth transit for passengers from both the southern and northern fringes. Residents near EM Bypass can access the airport via the Orange Line (Ruby-New Garia), connecting to Noapara.

The metro link is expected to significantly enhance airport accessibility, offering travelers a faster and more reliable alternative to road transport while reducing dependency on cabs.

(ET)