The Impressive TimesKolkata, West Bengal- Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated multiple development projects in Kolkata today, valued at over ₹5,200 crore, aimed at modernizing urban infrastructure, transport, and public amenities in the city. Addressing the gathering, Modi expressed his pleasure at contributing to the acceleration of development in West Bengal. Sharing his experience traveling on the Kolkata Metro from Noapara to Jai Hind Airport, he remarked that the modernization of Kolkata’s public transport system has been widely welcomed and is a testament to India’s vision of transforming urban mobility.
The Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone for the six-lane elevated Kona Expressway, a 7.2 km highway project worth over ₹1,200 crore, which will significantly improve connectivity between Howrah, surrounding rural areas, and Kolkata. Modi emphasized that projects like these not only reduce travel time but also strengthen trade, commerce, and tourism in the region. He highlighted that cities such as Kolkata represent the rich identity of India’s history and future and will play a pivotal role as the country moves toward becoming the world’s third-largest economy.
Modi stressed the importance of developing a 21st-century transport system for modern India. He noted that across the country, railways, roads, metros, and airports are being upgraded and integrated to ensure seamless connectivity. He cited the newly constructed metro lines in Kolkata, including the Noapara–Jai Hind Bimanbandar, Sealdah–Esplanade, and Beleghata–Hemanta Mukhopadhyay routes, which will connect busy city areas, reduce travel time, and enhance multi-modal connectivity. With seven new metro stations added and approximately 14 kilometers of new lines integrated, commuters will benefit from greater ease of travel, particularly between Howrah and Sealdah stations, where travel time has been cut from one and a half hours to just a few minutes. The Howrah Station subway and direct metro connectivity to the Kolkata Airport further demonstrate the city’s integrated urban transport system.
Highlighting West Bengal’s progress, Modi noted that the state has achieved 100% railway electrification. He also acknowledged the introduction of a MEMU train service between Purulia and Howrah and informed that nine Vande Bharat trains are operational in the state, along with two additional Amrit Bharat trains. In addition, under initiatives like Waste to Wealth and green mobility projects, cities are increasingly generating electricity from urban waste and expanding electric bus and charging infrastructure, reflecting India’s commitment to sustainable urban development.
Modi congratulated the citizens of Kolkata and West Bengal for these transformative projects, noting that they mark a major step in modernizing India’s urban landscape and improving the Ease of Living and Ease of Travel for residents. He affirmed that the government is committed to continuing infrastructure development, ensuring that urban growth is inclusive, environmentally sustainable, and connected.
The event was attended by Governor Dr. C.V. Ananda Bose, Union Ministers Shantanu Thakur, Ravneet Singh Bittu, Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, and other dignitaries, reflecting the strong support for West Bengal’s ongoing development initiatives.
In line with his vision of world-class infrastructure and urban connectivity, the Prime Minister also inaugurated a newly constructed subway at Howrah Metro Station and flagged off metro services via video conferencing for Sealdah–Esplanade and Beleghata–Hemanta Mukhopadhyay routes. These projects are expected to reduce travel time significantly and improve access to key areas including IT hubs and the airport. With the completion of the Kona Expressway and expansion of metro lines, Kolkata is set to experience enhanced regional connectivity, supporting trade, industrial growth, and better accessibility for its residents.
Modi concluded by emphasizing that these projects are more than infrastructure improvements—they are a foundation for a modern, connected, and sustainable urban future for Kolkata and West Bengal, reflecting India’s broader developmental aspirations in the 21st century.
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