Mumbai, July 14 -- Kolkata Metro is poised to expand its fleet and carry out station maintenance after reports indicated the system is likely to receive 14 new-generation rakes in FY27 to boost passenger capacity. The fleet addition is expected to strengthen services on the Blue Line and across the network, according to official statements. At the same time, the operator has begun a scheduled replacement of a mezzanine-to-surface escalator at Netaji Bhavan Metro station.
The escalator identified as NJ 3260 connects the mezzanine level to the surface gate at Jadubabu Bazar and will be taken out of service from nine July 2026 until the new unit is commissioned, the authority said. Commuter access via the stairs that run alongside the escalator will be maintained throughout the replacement work. Service disruptions will be limited to that escalator and no alteration of train services has been announced.
The agency advised that the work was expected to be completed in six weeks, approximately, and that arrangements would be monitored to minimise inconvenience to passengers. Staff will remain on site to assist with crowd movement and signage will direct commuters to available exits and stairways. The temporary suspension of the escalator aims to improve safety and reliability of passenger circulation at the station.
The planned procurement of 14 new rakes for FY27 forms part of a wider effort to augment capacity and modernise rolling stock, officials indicated. New-generation rakes are intended to increase throughput during peak hours and to support expanding ridership across Kolkata Metro. Implementation timelines and funding details were not specified, but the combined measures are presented as steps to enhance commuter experience and operational resilience.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Construction World.