East-West Metro Service to Follow Local Train Naming Convention

The East-West Metro line in Kolkata is set for a significant operational shift that aims to align its service terminology with the more familiar local train conventions used by Indian Railways.

In a move that will enhance the commuter experience and improve operational clarity, the metro services will now be referred to as “up” and “down,” a nomenclature widely used for local train services across the country. Until now, the East-West Metro’s services had been classified as heading towards Salt Lake Sector V (East) and Howrah Maidan (West). This was a temporary arrangement, as only certain stretches of the metro line had been operational. The introduction of the “up” and “down” system is part of an ongoing effort to streamline the metro’s operations and make it more user-friendly, particularly for those already familiar with local train terminologies. The service towards Salt Lake Sector V will now be known as “Down” while the route heading to Howrah Maidan will be classified as “Up.”

This shift is part of Kolkata Metro’s broader strategy to standardise services, helping passengers navigate routes with greater ease. In a statement, the Metro Railway also confirmed that this change comes as the project nears full operational capacity. The addition of this new system is not just about convenience; it reflects the metro’s commitment to improving transport infrastructure in Kolkata. With more routes opening, this rebranding will help commuters adjust to the expanded service without confusion.

The introduction of the up and down classification follows the anticipation of the full activation of the East-West Metro line. Currently, the East-West Metro is operational on two separate stretches, with services running between Salt Lake Sector V and Sealdah, and between Esplanade and Howrah Maidan. However, the critical link between Esplanade and Sealdah is still under development. A major milestone in the project will be reached later this month when the Commissioner of Railway Safety is scheduled to inspect the incomplete section between Esplanade and Sealdah on April 27th. This inspection will allow for the new software to be uploaded into the six rakes involved in the operations, which will temporarily halt services for three days to facilitate the update.

The successful completion of the inspection and integration of new systems, including necessary fire safety sanctions, will mark the final phase of the East-West Metro’s development. Once the full stretch becomes operational, it will serve as a crucial addition to the city’s public transport network. This metro extension is expected to significantly alleviate traffic congestion, reduce carbon emissions, and enhance the overall sustainability of Kolkata’s urban transport infrastructure.

For the people of Kolkata, the transformation of the East-West Metro into a fully functioning, efficient, and eco-friendly mode of transport is not just a change in service pattern but a step toward a more sustainable and connected city. As urban centres continue to grow, metro systems like the East-West line will be instrumental in promoting zero-carbon public transport options. The decision to rebrand the services as “up” and “down” is a simple yet effective move in making this transition more seamless for passengers, signalling the city’s commitment to an integrated, sustainable, and modern public transportation system.

Also Read :https://urbanacres.in/saket-g-block-metro-hub-to-transform-south-delhi-commutes/

East-West Metro Service to Follow Local Train Naming Convention