Kolkata Metro’s Orange Line extension from Beleghata to Sector V completed a successful trial run on Saturday, opening the way for a direct service between Kavi Subhash, also known as New Garia, and the city’s main technology and employment district. Passenger operations could begin around Christmas, but the launch is subject to clearance from the Railway Safety Commissioner.
The trial covered the extended section between Beleghata and Sector V, including the Gaur Kishore Ghosh, Nalban and Sector V stations. If the required safety approval is granted, services may begin on or around December 25, according to a report by Sangbad Pratidin – Kolkata.
The extension would expand the currently operational Orange Line passenger service beyond its roughly 9-kilometre section between Kavi Subhash and Beleghata. Once the new section opens, the line is expected to cover more than 15 kilometres, creating a direct metro link towards Sector V from New Garia.
The proposed connection is significant for workers and other daily commuters travelling to Sector V, one of Kolkata’s largest employment districts. The metro would reduce the need for an interchange or road-based travel for passengers coming from the New Garia side, although the actual travel benefits will depend on the final operating schedule and the start of passenger services.
Construction on the Orange Line extension had remained stalled for about two-and-a-half years because of work at Chingrighata. The report said the difficulties affecting this section were subsequently resolved, allowing construction to resume. A 366-metre stretch at Chingrighata and adjoining line work were completed in 90 days, according to the report.
The successful trial run is an operational milestone, but it does not by itself authorise passenger travel. The railway safety clearance is the next formal requirement before the metro can open the extension to the public. Until that approval is secured, the proposed December launch remains a possibility rather than a confirmed start date.
The extension is expected to add three stations—Gaur Kishore Ghosh, Nalban and Sector V—to the passenger route. Metro authorities must complete the safety approval process before announcing the final date for regular services between Kavi Subhash and Sector V.
