Kolkata metro : No decision on suspension of services of East-West corridor for installation of CBTC
News Mania Desk / Piyal Chatterjee / 15th january 2025
The Metro Railway Kolkata has stated that a final decision has yet to be reached concerning the suggested 45-day suspension of services along the full 16.6 km East-West Metro corridor. The shutdown is being contemplated to aid in the installation of the Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) signaling system, an essential step for smooth connectivity between Howrah Maidan and Salt Lake Sector V.
The executing agency, Kolkata Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (KMRCL), has proposed a block period from February 8 to March 24 to integrate the signaling system. This improvement seeks to boost links between key transit centers such as Howrah and Sealdah stations and the IT district in Salt Lake.
A representative from Metro Railway Kolkata recognized the possible disturbance that such a halt could create, mentioning, Ceasing train services for a long duration will upset countless passengers, resulting in a major effect on operations. A final decision will be made after thorough evaluation of all factors. In the meantime, worries have been expressed regarding the timing of the suggested suspension.
Tridib Chatterjee, head of the Publishers and Booksellers Guild, has contacted Metro officials requesting that they do not halt services from January 30 to February 8, as it would create hardship during the Kolkata Book Fair at Central Park Salt Lake. The fair draws in thousands of guests, and any interruptions could greatly impact attendance. The Metro representative stated that although two Sunday closures in January are authorized, the choice about the 45-day closure remains undecided. Metro officials confirmed they would notify the public of any service interruptions in advance and plan to initiate full commercial service along the East-West corridor by year’s end.