Kolkata Metro Update: In a major update for the commuters of Kolkata, the metro authority has announced that it will run extra weekend services in the coming weeks ahead of the Durga Puja. In its advisory, the Kolkata Metro announced that the extra trains will operate on October 3, 4, 10, and 11. It further stated that the extra services have been announced to manage the rush in the key regions ahead of the festival season.
Kolkata Metro Announces Changes
While providing details, the authority stated that the services on the Blue Line will be increase from 252 to 272 on October 3 and 10. It further stated that the services between Howrah Maidan and Salt Lake Sector V (Green Line) will be increased to 236 from 212. The authority stated that the train services on Yellow Line will increase to 120 from 92. However, the Orange Line will remain closed on both the dates.
Extra Services To Manage Rush
The Kolkata Metro further stated that the services on Blue Line on October 4 and 11 will be increased from 152 to a total of 188. It further stated that the number of trains on Green Line will be increased to 125 from 111, adding that 78 trains will continue to operate on Yellow Line. Apart from this, the Purple and Orange Line will remain closed.
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"By adding dozens of extra trips during these peak weekend shopping days, we aim to relieve platform congestion, lower waiting times, and provide a faster, safer commute for lakhs of citizens preparing for the grand festival," a Metro official was quoted as saying by the Indian Express.
Timings Remain Unchanged
The authority clarified that the timings for the first and last trains remain unchanged across all the metro lines despite a surge in services. The commuters have been advised to follow the guidelines and plan their travel accordingly to avoid inconveniences.