East-West Metro Becomes Kolkata's Lifeline Amid Protests
RAILWAYS & METRO RAIL

East-West Metro Becomes Kolkata's Lifeline Amid Protests

The East-West Metro in Kolkata proved to be an essential lifeline for commuters as it joined forces with the North-South Metro to ferry passengers underground while clashes erupted on the streets between police and protesters. The Esplanade-Howrah Maidan section of the East-West Metro became the sole means of travel between Kolkata and Howrah, transporting over 47,000 passengers by 5 pm, significantly surpassing its average daily ridership since its launch in March.

Metro officials anticipate that the total ridership could exceed the record 70,000 passengers on the corridor's opening day, March 15. Meanwhile, the North-South Metro carried around 3 lakh passengers by 5 pm, nearing its usual daily ridership of 5 lakhs.

From early morning, commuters from both cities crowded into the four metro stations, knowing there was no alternative for crossing the Hooghly River.

The 'Chhatra Samaj' protests led to a complete halt in road transport on the Howrah side of the river, leaving buses, taxis, and app cabs off the roads. Many commuters, like musician Soumendu Das from Mandirtala, relied on the metro to reach Kolkata for work, only to find themselves stranded without transport options in the evening.

Despite the inconveniences, commuters were grateful for the metro. Kalighat resident S K Das, 72, shared, "If it hadn?t been for the new metro, we would have missed the Rajdhani Express." Nirmal Das, a Mecheda resident working at the Esplanade post office, recounted his first under-river metro journey with mixed emotions, noting that while he had planned to try the new metro line, the protests forced him to do so sooner than expected.

This event highlights the critical role of Kolkata?s metro system in maintaining connectivity during times of crisis, providing an essential service when all other transport options fail.

The East-West Metro in Kolkata proved to be an essential lifeline for commuters as it joined forces with the North-South Metro to ferry passengers underground while clashes erupted on the streets between police and protesters. The Esplanade-Howrah Maidan section of the East-West Metro became the sole means of travel between Kolkata and Howrah, transporting over 47,000 passengers by 5 pm, significantly surpassing its average daily ridership since its launch in March. Metro officials anticipate that the total ridership could exceed the record 70,000 passengers on the corridor's opening day, March 15. Meanwhile, the North-South Metro carried around 3 lakh passengers by 5 pm, nearing its usual daily ridership of 5 lakhs. From early morning, commuters from both cities crowded into the four metro stations, knowing there was no alternative for crossing the Hooghly River. The 'Chhatra Samaj' protests led to a complete halt in road transport on the Howrah side of the river, leaving buses, taxis, and app cabs off the roads. Many commuters, like musician Soumendu Das from Mandirtala, relied on the metro to reach Kolkata for work, only to find themselves stranded without transport options in the evening. Despite the inconveniences, commuters were grateful for the metro. Kalighat resident S K Das, 72, shared, If it hadn?t been for the new metro, we would have missed the Rajdhani Express. Nirmal Das, a Mecheda resident working at the Esplanade post office, recounted his first under-river metro journey with mixed emotions, noting that while he had planned to try the new metro line, the protests forced him to do so sooner than expected. This event highlights the critical role of Kolkata?s metro system in maintaining connectivity during times of crisis, providing an essential service when all other transport options fail.

Next Story
Building Material

Parallel debuts fluted glass collection, redefining luxury interiors

Parallel has launched an exquisite collection of tinted, extra-clear, and designer fluted glass, introducing a new dimension to contemporary interiors.Fluted glass, known for its vertical striations, diffuses light while sculpting silhouettes with a refined aesthetic. Parallel’s range includes smoky tinted variants, pristine extra-clear options, and metallic-infused designs, ideal for partitions, doors, and wall treatments that balance exclusivity with openness.Emphasising sensory design, the collection enhances spaces by creating dynamic light interactions. Crafted for luxury residences, ho..

Next Story
Building Material

Nivasa unveils luxury lighting collection blending artistry and innovation

Nivasa, a leader in luxury furniture design, has launched an exquisite lighting collection inspired by nature, combining sculptural aesthetics with masterful craftsmanship.Crafted from premium 304-grade stainless steel, each piece showcases a refined interplay of organic and sleek forms, offering a range of finishes for bespoke customization. Designed for grand foyers, intimate spaces, and sophisticated interiors, the collection merges contemporary finesse with global design standards.Collection highlights include:Circular Drummer’s Chandelier – A geometric yet fluid design in a light gold..

Next Story
Real Estate

IHCL launches Claridges Collection, redefining boutique luxury

Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) has introduced the Claridges Collection, a boutique luxury brand catering to discerning travelers seeking refined experiences.Speaking on the occasion, Puneet Chhatwal, MD & CEO, IHCL, said, “With India’s growing economic prominence, the income pyramid is witnessing a structural shift and the demand for luxury product and services is at an all-time high led by significant expansion of households in the high-net-worth bracket. This presents a market opportunity to extend hospitality offerings in the luxury segment as consumers are seeking differentiated ..

Advertisement

Advertisement

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world.

STAY CONNECTED

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Talk to us?