‘Chor, dakat rani’ barbs, shoes and mud hurled at Mamata Banerjee’s car

Kolkata’s Joka-Esplanade Metro, also known as the Purple Line, marked a significant milestone on August 11, 2026, with the successful completion of its final tunnel breakthrough at Victoria Metro Station. The Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) named ‘Divya’ achieved this feat around noon, bringing the project closer to full operation. This marks the culmination of years of effort and overcomes challenges that delayed progress. The Joka-Esplanade Metro line, which connects Joka to Esplanade via Park Street, is one of the most anticipated projects in Kolkata's public transportation network. It is designed to alleviate congestion and improve connectivity in the city. The line consists of twin tube tunnels constructed using two TBMs, ‘Durga’ and ‘Divya’. The first tunnel, spanning 1.75 kilometers between Kidderpore and Victoria, was completed earlier in July 2026. The second tunnel, also running between these points, was finished on August 11, completing the underground section of the route. Construction of the Purple Line began in 2011, but the project faced numerous setbacks, including delays caused by logistical issues, environmental concerns, and administrative hurdles. Despite these obstacles, the project team managed to keep the work moving forward. The TBM ‘Durga’ commenced operations in July 2025, followed by ‘Divya’ in October of the same year. Both machines worked tirelessly to complete their respective sections, ensuring minimal disruption to the bustling urban environment. Once fully operational, the Purple Line will significantly enhance the city’s metro network. Currently, the Blue and Green lines operate fully, while the Purple and Orange lines offer limited services due to ongoing construction delays. With the completion of the Joka-Esplanade Metro, Kolkata will see an expansion of its transit options, providing residents with more reliable and efficient travel options. The final phase of the project involves constructing the remaining 8-kilometer stretch above ground between Joka and Majerhat stations. This portion of the line will be built using the traditional Cut & Cover method, which involves excavating trenches along the surface before erecting structures. Once this segment is completed, the entire Purple Line will be ready for commissioning, with an expected operational date of 2029. Prem Sagar Gupta, General Manager of the Metro Railway in Kolkata, praised the dedication and coordination of the workers involved in the project. He highlighted the importance of maintaining high standards of safety and efficiency throughout the construction process, especially in a densely populated area where minimizing disruptions is crucial. The successful completion of the final tunnel is a major step toward realizing the vision of a more connected and accessible Kolkata. As the city continues to grow, such infrastructure developments play a vital role in supporting its economic and social development. The Purple Line is expected to become a cornerstone of the city’s transportation strategy, offering a modern alternative to the existing routes and contributing to the overall mobility of its citizens.