Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday inaugurated three new metro rail routes in Kolkata, adding a total of 13.61 kilometers to the city’s growing urban transit network. The expansion is expected to ease congestion, improve last-mile connectivity, and provide faster travel options to daily commuters.

The newly launched routes cover key stretches in the city, linking residential areas with commercial and transit hubs. Officials said the addition would help decongest road traffic while offering an eco-friendly transport alternative.

Addressing the event, PM Modi highlighted the government’s focus on expanding metro rail infrastructure across the country, calling it a “pillar of modern urban development.” He said the new routes would benefit lakhs of passengers in Kolkata and strengthen the city’s role as an economic and cultural hub.

The Kolkata Metro, India’s first underground rail system, has been steadily expanding over the past few years. With this launch, authorities expect ridership to increase significantly, providing relief to daily travelers who depend on affordable and reliable transport.