Mumbai, July 16 -- Kolkata Metro plans to induct 14 new-generation rakes in the 2026-27 financial year to raise passenger capacity and improve operational efficiency. The rakes will be manufactured by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai and will include three-phase AC motors and automatic sliding doors. They have a design speed of 90 kmph and an expected operating speed of 80 kmph. The introduction is aimed at easing congestion on busy corridors and reducing peak crowding.
SS Kannan, chief public relations officer of Kolkata Metro, indicated that roughly 14 rakes could arrive during the financial year and confirmed ICF manufacture. The railway minister has outlined induction of 60 new-generation rakes over the next four to five years to modernise the network. Officials said the procurement will support higher service frequency and reliability. Officials noted coordination with operations and maintenance teams for a seamless rollout.
ICF previously produced the first 18 non-AC rakes that ran on a DC propulsion system and those units have been retired after completing their codal life. Between 2010 and 2013, following the extension from Tollygunge to Kavi Subhas, ICF supplied 13 AC rakes fitted with a DC propulsion system from Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited. The fleet changes reflect a longer shift in propulsion and comfort standards as the network modernises. Supply and testing schedules will be integrated with existing signalling and training plans.
Kolkata Metro has started replacing the escalator linking the mezzanine to the surface gate at Netaji Bhavan station on the Blue Line. Escalator service will be suspended from 9 July 2026 until the new unit is commissioned, with work expected to take approximately six weeks, while adjacent stairs will remain open. Together with fleet additions, these upgrades are intended to improve capacity and commuter convenience. Authorities said the combined measures should provide a steadier commuter experience as works proceed.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Construction World.