Metro Railway Kolkata has secured crucial approvals from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and has now moved forward with the much-anticipated extension of the Yellow Line. The 6.8-kilometre extension from the Airport to Birati, valued at Rs1,330 crore, marks a significant milestone in the development of Kolkata’s metro network.
Following a protracted period of delays and regulatory hurdles, the AAI’s recent clearance has been a game-changer for the project. The authority has approved the use of 18-metre tall cranes, which were essential for construction in the proximity of the airport. This pivotal decision has enabled Metro Railway to issue tenders for the civil construction work, which includes building new stations at Birati and Michael Nagar. The project, which forms part of the Yellow Line’s broader 11.2-kilometre extension towards Barasat, is poised to enhance connectivity in the north-eastern suburbs of Kolkata. The scope of the Rs1,330 crore contract encompasses the construction of a 3.6-kilometre metro tunnel and the development of two underground stations. The Birati station will be constructed using the cut-and-cover method, while the tunnel along the airport’s boundary will employ the RCC (reinforced cement concrete) box pushing method, avoiding the need for tunnel boring machines (TBMs).
Despite the progress, challenges remain. Negotiations are ongoing regarding the construction of the New Barrackpore station, which is situated near the flight path of planes on the northern end of the main runway. Additionally, the current fiscal year has allocated only Rs200 crore to the Yellow Line project, raising concerns about the timely flow of funds required for completing the extension. A Metro Railway official expressed optimism that the project’s momentum would continue, emphasising the importance of the NOC for crane usage as a critical development. The contractor awarded the bid will be responsible for designing, procuring, and constructing the tunnel and stations, including all associated infrastructure such as architectural finishes, firefighting systems, and power supply installations.
The Birati extension represents a crucial phase in Kolkata’s metro expansion, aimed at alleviating congestion and improving transportation efficiency. With regulatory obstacles now largely cleared, the project is expected to proceed with renewed vigour, offering enhanced connectivity and convenience to the city’s growing population.
