Kolkata Metro is preparing for a significant expansion as authorities plan to extend the network to around 130 km in the coming years, marking a major phase of growth for urban transit in the city. The general manager outlined the target during an Independence Day address at the Metro Rail Bhavan and reviewed recent operational and financial performance. The expansion is intended to broaden coverage across Kolkata and adjoining districts and to integrate with other modes of transport. Planners emphasised coordination with municipal authorities to align routes with urban development. Several new sections are under construction or in development, including the Joka to Esplanade corridor on the Purple Line and the Orange Line linking New Garia to the airport. These projects are designed to provide commuters with more options alongside road and suburban rail services as demand grows. Authorities are prioritising phased commissioning to manage resources and minimise disruption during construction. Work schedules aim to limit commuter inconvenience. Passenger numbers have risen markedly. Kolkata Metro carried 236 million (mn) passengers during 2025-26, underlining growing dependence on rapid transit for daily journeys. The system earned Rs 1.66 billion (bn) between April and July 2026, a rise of 34 per cent compared with the same period the previous year. Operational metrics indicate improved utilisation as services expand. The adoption of digital ticketing has accelerated through token and smart card purchases, QR based tickets and online recharges, while the Aamar Kolkata Metro app is available on the Google Play Store and Apple's App Store. This shift is expected to reduce reliance on physical counters and to ease ticketing during peak periods. Alongside technological changes, the authority is focusing on operational safety, passenger amenities and service reliability to support the enlarged network. Timetabling and staff training are being reviewed to maintain punctuality and cleanliness standards.