Over a century after the concept of an underwater railway line connecting Kolkata and Howrah was proposed by British engineer Sir Harley Dalrymple-Hay, born in India, the dream is set to become a reality. Today, on Wednesday, PM Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate Kolkata Metro’s Green Line, including the historic 4.8 km Howrah Maidan-Esplanade stretch. This particular stretch will mark India’s maiden under-river transportation tunnel, realizing Sir Harley Dalrymple-Hay’s vision from 1921.
The presentation before the PM will highlight the significant engineering feat, with the under-river tunnel situated 13 meters beneath the riverbed and extending 37 meters (over 120 feet) below the ground surface. To mitigate potential challenges such as encountering lost anchors or ship wreckage, extensive soil studies were conducted through four boreholes in the river, fortunately revealing no unforeseen obstacles.
Operated by the Green Line, the 9.2km service links Sector V in east Kolkata to Sealdah railway station. The Kolkata Metro Rail Corporation oversees the implementation of this Rs 10,000-crore project, symbolizing a remarkable achievement in India’s transportation infrastructure.
Also Read: Horoscope, March 6: Unlock Your Cosmic Destiny For Today
