In a significant development for the city’s urban transport, the Kolkata Metro has announced the commencement of construction for the Victoria Metro Station, a crucial part of the Purple Line’s Joka – Esplanade metro corridor. This move marks a major step in the expansion of metro connectivity across the city, promising to streamline commutes and enhance access to central Kolkata.
More Details:
The construction of the Victoria Metro Station signals a rapid progression in Kolkata’s metro infrastructure development. The Purple Line, particularly the Joka-Majerhat stretch, has recently become operational, with the Mominpur (Excl.) to Esplanade stretch now breaking ground. The project has been awarded to construction giant Larsen & Toubro, reflecting the city’s commitment to improving public transport services.
Construction work of Mominpur (Excl.) to Esplanade stretch of this Corridor has also got underway. A work order for construction of this stretch has already been issued to M/s Larsen & Toubro last July. After the commissioning of this stretch, commuting from south-western part of Kolkata i.e.Taratala, Behala, Thakurpukur and Joka areas to Central Kolkata will be smooth and easy.
Significance of the Victoria Station:
- Out of the four stations on this stretch (Khidderpore, Victoria, Park Street, and Esplanade), construction work of underground Victoria station has been taken up.
- People from different parts of the city will be able to reach Victoria, an iconic place of Kolkata, after commissioning of this station very easily.
- This station will be 325-metre long and its platform level will be at the depth of 14.7 metre from the surface.
- People from across the city and suburbs will also be able to visit the Brigade Parade Ground famously known as ‘Garer Maath’ and can enjoy blissful summer and winter afternoons and evenings after getting down here.
The implementing agency RVNL:
- The construction work of Victoria station has been taken up by the executing agency Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL).
- Barricading work of the area required for construction of this underground station and other preparatory works are almost complete.
- At first, diaphragm walls (D-walls) will be constructed and then the station slabs will be constructed following the Cut and Cover Top-Down Method.
- For construction of these diaphragm walls, machinery has been deployed at Victoria station site.
Development with Protecting Nature:
- In order to construct this station, around 29 trees, which have already been identified, will be transplanted to Kamardanga near Beliaghata to pave the way for this work.
- For transplanting these infringing trees, necessary clearances are being obtained. Once obtained, these trees will be transplanted and a leftover portion of the D-walls will be constructed.
- Vibration Impact Study has already been done to assess the vibration levels likely to be generated during the construction and operations of Metro Railway.
- Health survey of the basement of Victoria Memorial Hall has already been done.
- Different measures will also be taken to reduce the air and noise pollution during the construction work of this station. Experts of IIT-Guwahati will also be consulted to check the drawing proof of this station.
Conclusion:
The construction of the Victoria Metro Station is more than just an infrastructure project; it’s a testament to Kolkata’s vision of a connected and accessible city. As the Purple Line progresses, residents can look forward to a future where the city’s rich history and dynamic growth converge seamlessly through sustainable and efficient public transport.
Source: Kolkata Metro – Press Release | Images Credit: Kolkata Metro
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