The Kolkata Metro’s ambitious Purple Line project reached a major engineering milestone on August 11, 2026, with the successful completion of the second tunnel breakthrough in the Khidderpore-Victoria section. This achievement marks a pivotal step forward in connecting the southern parts of the city with the central business district. The Ministry of Railways confirmed that Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) ‘Divya’ successfully finished its drive, paving the way for further progress on the Joka-Esplanade Metro Corridor.
Key updates regarding the project milestone include:
- TBM ‘Divya’ successfully completed a 1.72-kilometer underground tunnel drive between Khidderpore and Victoria.
- This follows the successful breakthrough of TBM ‘Durga’ in the same section, which occurred on July 10, 2026.
- The Joka-Esplanade Metro Corridor, known as the Purple Line, spans a total of 18.84 kilometers.
- An 7.74-kilometer elevated section is already operational, currently serving passengers between Joka and Majerhat.
Advancing Kolkata Connectivity
The Purple Line is designed to be a game-changer for Kolkata’s urban transit, aimed at drastically reducing travel time and easing the heavy road congestion often seen in these busy corridors. By linking the southern suburbs to the heart of the city, the line promises a seamless commuting experience for thousands of daily passengers. The current underground construction involves the creation of twin tunnels that will eventually connect to a planned 900-meter link between Victoria and Park Street.
Future Tunneling Milestones
The engineering teams are working on a strict timeline to ensure the project remains on track. While the current breakthrough celebrates the completion of the second tunnel in this specific stretch, work continues at a steady pace. TBM ‘Durga’ is currently on schedule to complete its specific tunneling segment by December 2026. Following this, TBM ‘Divya’ is expected to hit its next major breakthrough by March 2027 as the machines continue their journey toward the Park Street station. These consistent advancements underscore the commitment of the Indian Railways and the Ministry of Railways to complete this vital infrastructure project efficiently.