Central-Funded Orange Line Set to Transform Kolkata’s Transport Landscape

A new chapter in Kolkata’s transport map is about to begin as the Orange Line (Line 6) of Kolkata Metro from New Garia (Kavi Subhas) to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport is targeted to be fully operational by December 2026. With the opening of this corridor of about 29.87 km to 32 km, it will take only about 56 minutes to reach the airport from South Kolkata, which is a big relief for the daily passengers and air passengers. The Orange Line will further strengthen the Kolkata Metro network by connecting the Blue Line, Green Line and Yellow Line. At present, the section from New Garia to Beleghata is already operational, so the usefulness of this route is being felt by the passengers. On the other hand, the construction of the last part and the rest of the stations, including the Chingrighata link, is going on at a fast pace, which will help complete this important corridor within the stipulated time. This project will not only reduce travel time, but will also be an important milestone in Kolkata’s urban development and modern public transport system.

Chingrighata Metro work gets momentum after HC intervention

The long-standing stalemate in the Chingrighata section is coming to an end, which is a big relief for the Orange Line project of Kolkata Metro from New Garia to Airport. The main reason for the delay in work on this important section was the delay in getting the necessary traffic diversion permission or NOC from the Kolkata Police. Being one of the busiest intersections on the EM Bypass, heavy work such as installing concrete girders on the pillars of the viaduct by stopping or diverting traffic was not allowed. Fearing an increase in traffic and the disruption of ambulance traffic to nearby hospitals, the police objected to the traffic block on several occasions. Also, big events like the Gangasagar Mela or the international cricket match at the Eden Gardens further delay the permit process.

The Calcutta High Court intervened to resolve the impasse and directed the state government and the Rail Vikas Nigam (RVNL) to expedite the resolution of the public interest litigation. The High Court has set a deadline to complete the work on the Chingrighata section by February 15, 2026, and has directed to finalize the date of traffic diversion by January 6, 2026. A new two-lane road has been constructed as an alternative to normal traffic. At the same time, several high-level meetings were held between KMDA, Kolkata Police, KMC and RVNL. As a result of these steps, the residents of the city are hoping to complete the work of the remaining 288-meter long viaduct quickly and start the entire Orange Line by December 2026.

Kolkata Metro to be built with Centre’s funds

The Orange Line project of Kolkata Metro from New Garia to Airport is not only a transport initiative but also a reflection of the huge financial commitment of the Central Government. The current revised approved cost of the project is Rs 8,964 crore, which is largely funded by the Ministry of Railways, Government of India. In 2010-11, while the initial cost was estimated at Rs 3,952 crore, the cost has increased significantly due to land acquisition, alignment changes and delays. Since the Kolkata Metro is under the Indian Railways, almost the entire cost of construction is being borne by the Central Government. The State Government is primarily playing the role of facilitator in land acquisition and traffic management, which is contributing significantly in making this project a reality.

Kolkata’s real estate will change the city with the touch of the metro

Experts believe that the opening of the 32-kilometer-long Orange Line corridor from New Garia to the airport of Kolkata Metro is going to bring a breakthrough not only in transportation, but also in the surrounding areas and the real estate market. Connecting the northern and southern parts of the city, the corridor will speed up connectivity and turn long-neglected areas into new centres of investment. According to market analysts, the demand for residential and commercial properties located within 500 meters to 1 kilometer from metro stations will increase significantly. Property prices in these areas are likely to increase by 15% to 25% on an average in the next 3-5 years after the corridor is fully operational, especially in New Town, Rajarhat and adjoining areas of EM Bypass. Not only buying and selling, the rental market will also gain momentum; rents in New Town Action Area I, II and III are likely to increase by 10% to 15%. Besides, new housing projects, shopping malls, hospitals and commercial centers will be built with metro connectivity. The reduced travel time will improve the quality of life and this corridor will give a new look to the real estate map of Kolkata.