TMC MP pushes Centre for Kolkata Metro extension to Hooghly’s Chunchura-Bandel route

Rachna Banerjee, the Member of Parliament for Hooghly, is pushing for the extension of Kolkata's metro rail network to the Hooghly district, specifically targeting the Chunchura-Bandel route. During a meeting with Hooghly District Magistrate Mukta Arya, Banerjee emphasized the importance of connecting these areas to Kolkata's metro system to enhance local transportation and ease congestion. The metro extension is considered a vital development for the district’s infrastructure and would improve commuting for thousands of residents.

The proposal for the metro extension is currently being explored, with significant coordination required between state and central authorities. Banerjee highlighted that progress on the project is contingent on securing support from the central government. “This is a major initiative that cannot move forward without assistance from the central government,” she explained, pointing out that the local administration has been involved in ongoing discussions regarding the project's feasibility and impact on the region.

Banerjee also revealed that she had sent a letter to the Railway Minister, Ashwini Vaishnaw, to formally request the extension. In his response, Vaishnaw acknowledged the proposal and indicated that the Railway Ministry is considering the feasibility of the metro extension to Hooghly. The Railway Minister also noted that logistical aspects, including land acquisition and alignment of the proposed route, would need to be addressed for the project to move forward. Banerjee stated that these issues are being reviewed to determine the most effective approach for the metro expansion.

The planned metro extension would not reach Bandel directly but instead establish a link between Shrirampur and Howrah. This route would facilitate improved connectivity between Hooghly and Kolkata, enhancing access to the city’s central metro network. The proposed extension is expected to reduce travel times for commuters traveling between Hooghly and Kolkata and help alleviate pressure on existing road transport systems.

In addition to the metro extension, Banerjee and the District Magistrate discussed other infrastructure and development projects in Hooghly. While the metro extension is a priority, both officials agreed that securing central government support is crucial for its successful implementation. Discussions on land acquisition, funding, and technical aspects of the metro route are ongoing, with further deliberations planned in the coming months to finalize the project’s scope and timeline.