The Manohardas Tarag waterbody in Kolkata will be temporarily drained to facilitate the construction of the Joka Metro, according to recent announcements by the authorities. This measure is deemed necessary to advance the long-awaited metro project aimed at improving urban transportation in the city. The decision to drain the waterbody has sparked concerns among environmentalists and local residents, who worry about potential ecological impacts.

Officials have assured the public that the drainage is a temporary step and that the waterbody will be fully restored once the construction phase is complete. The restoration plan includes not only refilling the waterbody but also enhancing its ecological health and maintaining its role in the local environment. Measures will be taken to ensure minimal disruption to the aquatic ecosystem during the construction period.

The Joka Metro project is a critical component of Kolkata's urban infrastructure development, intended to ease traffic congestion and provide efficient public transportation options. The project has faced several delays over the years, making this recent progress a significant milestone.

Local authorities have committed to working closely with environmental experts to monitor the impact of the drainage and ensure that restoration efforts meet ecological standards. Community engagement and transparency have been emphasised as key elements in managing the project's environmental footprint.

The temporary drainage of Manohardas Tarag is seen as a necessary compromise to advance the Joka Metro project, with strong commitments to restoring and potentially enhancing the waterbody post-construction. This approach aims to balance infrastructure development with environmental preservation, addressing both urban transportation needs and ecological concerns.