Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) has been advancing in the construction work in Kolkata’s Purple Line expansion as Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) Durga began its 1.7 km tunnelling work from Kidderpore to Victoria Station. Metro Railway GM Shri P. Uday Kumar Reddy inaugurated the tunneling journey in presence of several officials and dignitaries.
Introduction:
In a major stride towards Kolkata Metro’s infrastructure development, Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) launched Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) Durga (S-1410A) for its 1.7 km journey from Kidderpore to Victoria Station. This project aims to enhance regional connectivity as well as the commuter’s travel experience.
The start of this activity is a proof of RVNL’s commitment towards improving the urban transit infrastructure and to complete execution in the scheduled timeline.
Flag-Off Ceremony Led by Metro Leadership:
Shri P. Uday Kumar Reddy, General Manager, Metro Railway inaugurated the drive by activating the TBM Durga just by pressing a button. The event witnessed several prominent dignitaries, including His Excellency, the Consul General of Nepal, and other senior officials.
This event was a step toward a technical advancement in Kolkata Metro’s Purple line.this shows the commitment of the company for the urban transit development.
Project Highlights:
The Purple Line corridor aims to reduce congestion in the key zones of Kolkata and will connect major hubs from Joka to Esplanade. The current tunnelling from Kidderpore to Victoria is a vital part of this larger underground strategy.
Key Details Include:
- Tunnelling Stretch: 1.7 km between Kidderpore and Victoria
- Total Corridor: Mominpur–Esplanade underground section
- TBMs in Use: Durga and Divya
- Next Targets: Reach Victoria by May 2026, Park Street by end of 2026
Engineering Marvels at Work – TBM Durga:
TBM Durga is the first tunnel boring machine used for this specific section. There will be another Tunnel boring machine named TBM Divya that will be deployed after it to bore the parallel tunnel.These machines are tailored to operate with lower disruption to the surface, allowing safety and speed in urban underground construction. This twin TBM operation exemplifies India’s progress in adopting global tunnelling technologies.
Paving the Way for Future-Ready Urban Mobility:
With tunnelling now underway, the Purple Line is moving closer to reinforcing Kolkata’s transit network. The underground section will help in decongestion of traffic-heavy zones and offer a smooth, high-capacity travel option, contributing to the city’s smart mobility goals.
RVNL and Metro Railway’s alliance efforts show strong project governance and future-focused strategy.
Conclusion:
The beginning of tunneling from Kidderpore to Victoria by TBM Durga is a significant step towards Purple Line’s advancement. With a precise timeline and advanced engineering, Kolkata moves continuously toward a smart, efficient metro network. The project aims to redefine the city’s urban mobility for the future.
Source: RVNL | Image Credit: RVNL
Join us to showcase Innovation in Rail & Metro sector of India- Book your Delegate Pass: https://railanalysis.in/info/delegate.html
Timely insights, straight to your WhatsApp—stay updated with ease!
Stay connected to the rail industry—timely news, straight to Telegram
