Joka-Esplanade Metro: Kidderpore Station Back on Track

The West Bengal government has removed a critical obstacle in the execution of the Joka–Esplanade Metro corridor by granting a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for land use at Alipore’s Bodyguard Lines, paving the way for the construction of the much-delayed Kidderpore station.

The 14 km Purple Line, which will eventually extend an additional 1.6 km to Eden Gardens, has seen steady progress in its 5 km underground stretch, including tunneling and station development at Victoria, Park Street, and Esplanade. However, construction at Kidderpore had been stalled for over three years due to land access issues involving the Kolkata Armed Police's Bodyguard Lines.

On 26 June 2025, the state government formally informed Metro Railway that construction may proceed within the barracks area, subject to specific terms and conditions.

As part of the land clearance, Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), the implementing agency, will receive 837 sq. m near the Bodyguard Lines boundary for infrastructure works, including the widening of Diamond Harbour Road, installation of ventilation shafts, fire exits, and other essential facilities. An additional 1,702 sq. m will be temporarily allocated and returned upon project completion, expected in approximately three years.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.