Kolkata Metro delays decision on East-West corridor shutdown for CBTC installation

Kolkata Metro authorities have yet to make a final decision regarding the proposed 45-day suspension of services along the entire 16.6 km East-West Metro corridor. The shutdown is being considered to facilitate the installation of the Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) signaling system, which is expected to significantly improve connectivity between Howrah Maidan and Salt Lake Sector V.

The Kolkata Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (KMRCL), the implementing agency for this project, has recommended a block from February 8 to March 24 for the signaling upgrade. This move aims to enhance the connectivity between key transit hubs like Howrah and Sealdah stations, as well as the IT hub in Salt Lake, offering smoother operations for the Metro network.

While the upgrade is seen as essential for modernizing the network, Metro Railway Kolkata has acknowledged that suspending services for an extended period would cause significant inconvenience to daily commuters. Thousands rely on the Metro for their daily travel, and such a shutdown could disrupt their routines. The spokesperson emphasized that a decision would be made after a careful assessment of all the impacts.

Currently, services on the East-West Metro corridor are operating in a truncated manner, with trains running between Howrah Maidan and Esplanade, and between Sealdah and Salt Lake Sector V. This limited operation has already led to reduced coverage of the full 16.6 km stretch, but the installation of the CBTC system is deemed crucial for expanding and improving operations.

Concerns about the timing of the proposed suspension have also been raised, particularly in light of the upcoming Kolkata Book Fair. Tridib Chatterjee, president of the Publishers and Booksellers Guild, has urged the Metro authorities not to suspend services between January 30 and February 8, as this would greatly inconvenience visitors attending the fair at Central Park Salt Lake. The event attracts a large number of attendees, and service disruptions could significantly impact attendance.

The Metro spokesperson has reassured the public that, although some Sunday blocks in January have been approved, the final decision on the 45-day shutdown is still pending. Metro authorities have committed to announcing any planned service suspensions in advance, and they aim to commence full commercial operations along the East-West corridor by the end of the year.