Kolkata’s rapid transit network is set for a significant electrical overhaul after Metro Railway initiated a ₹345.76 crore procurement process to modernise its traction and auxiliary power systems under Phase 1. The move targets ageing substations and third-rail infrastructure that power daily operations, marking one of the most substantial system upgrades in recent years for the city’s underground network.
According to tender documents released this week, the project covers replacement and upgradation of 750 V DC traction substations, including third-rail components and associated power cables. It also includes converting existing 11 kV auxiliary substations to more robust 33 kV systems. The contract carries a 36-month completion timeline from commencement, reflecting the scale and complexity of working within an operational metro corridor. For a system that carries millions annually, dependable traction power is not merely a technical necessity but a civic imperative. Urban mobility experts note that electrical reliability directly influences punctuality, passenger safety and energy efficiency. By migrating to higher-capacity 33 kV auxiliary substations, Kolkata Metro is expected to reduce transmission losses, improve load management and support future service intensification.
The Kolkata Metro electrical upgrade comes at a time when Indian cities are under pressure to decarbonise transport infrastructure while meeting rising commuter demand. Electrified mass transit already represents one of the lowest-emission urban mobility modes. However, outdated substations can limit performance and increase maintenance risks. Modern power systems enable better integration of regenerative braking, reduce outages and create operational redundancies critical in dense metropolitan corridors. Industry analysts suggest that such infrastructure investments also stimulate local engineering and manufacturing ecosystems. Large electrical works contracts typically involve domestic suppliers of transformers, switchgear, cables and protection systems, creating downstream economic activity over the three-year execution window. With an earnest money deposit requirement and structured bidding framework, the tender is expected to attract established infrastructure players with metro rail expertise.
Urban planners argue that infrastructure renewal within legacy systems is as important as new line expansion. While new corridors often draw attention, reliability improvements in existing lines deliver immediate gains for commuters, especially women, elderly passengers and daily wage workers who depend on predictable transit. The procurement process will close in March, followed by technical and financial evaluations under a two-stage system. Once awarded, phased execution will likely be scheduled to minimise service disruptions.As Kolkata continues expanding its metro footprint, strengthening the electrical backbone of its oldest corridors may prove fundamental to building a safer, more resilient and climate-aligned urban transport network.
