Kolkata Metro has announced extended services on the Blue Line this Christmas Eve, aiming to enhance commuter convenience and support the city’s festive travel demands. The line, running between Dakshineswar and Shahid Khudiram, will see its last trains departing later than usual, allowing residents additional flexibility to navigate the city during holiday celebrations.
Officials confirmed that the final train from Shahid Khudiram to Dumdum will depart at 10:30 pm, while the last service from Dakshineswar is scheduled for 10:23 pm, a notable extension from the usual 9:33 pm departure. Industry analysts note that these changes reflect a proactive approach by Kolkata Metro to adapt operations to peak seasonal demand and improve user experience. On Christmas Day, the Blue Line will commence services from 6:50 am, operating a total of 224 trips throughout the day. In comparison, the Green Line will run 201 services, slightly fewer than the 228 typically scheduled on standard working days. Urban transport experts suggest that the adjustment in service frequency reflects realistic planning, balancing operational capacity with anticipated commuter volumes during festive periods.
City planners emphasise that extended metro operations are part of broader efforts to provide equitable and sustainable mobility options. By ensuring that public transport remains accessible during high-demand periods, Kolkata Metro contributes to reducing private vehicle usage, congestion, and related environmental impacts. A senior transport official noted, “Adjusting service hours for holidays not only serves commuters’ convenience but also supports the city’s sustainability objectives by promoting public transit.” Additionally, the decision underscores the importance of responsive transport management in large urban centres. Holiday periods often strain existing infrastructure, and flexible scheduling helps mitigate potential disruptions, allowing residents to attend festive events while maintaining efficiency across the metro network.
Urban mobility analysts highlight that strategic planning for holiday service extensions can serve as a model for other Indian cities aiming to balance commuter demand with sustainable transport goals. Beyond convenience, such measures reduce pressure on road networks, promote zero-carbon commuting, and enhance overall urban livability. As Kolkata Metro continues to adjust schedules in response to public needs, residents can expect improved last-mile connectivity and smoother travel experiences throughout the festive season, reinforcing the network’s role as a reliable, low-emission alternative to private transport.
Kolkata Metro Extends Christmas Eve Blue Line Late Night Services For Commuters
