Political Sparks as Kolkata Metro Projects Set to Launch

The Railway Ministry has extended an invitation to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to attend the upcoming inauguration of three Kolkata metro projects scheduled for August 22. With Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the helm, the ceremony will mark the opening of crucial sections of the Green, Orange, and Yellow Lines.

The Sealdah-Esplanade section of the Green Line, renowned as India's first underwater metro, promises to fully connect Howrah Maidan to Salt Lake Sector 5. Meanwhile, the Noapara-Jai Hind Bimanbandar (airport) section of the Yellow Line will ease airport commutes, enhancing transportation connectivity in the city.

While the state government has yet to confirm the chief minister's attendance, the TMC has raised concerns over the initiation's timing, suggesting it aligns with upcoming elections. In response, the state BJP attributes the delays to local land acquisition hurdles and seeks cooperative action.

(With inputs from agencies.)