Chinese Rakes Strengthen Kolkata Metro — In a significant step toward improving metro connectivity in Kolkata, two newly assembled Chinese rakes have arrived to serve the city’s expanding Purple and Orange lines. These advanced rakes, manufactured by China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation (CRRC) and assembled at Chennai’s Integral Coach Factory (ICF), aim to enhance the frequency and reliability of metro services on underperforming corridors.
Kolkata Metro’s Infrastructure Gets a Major Boost
With increasing pressure on the Purple Line (Joka to Majerhat) and the Orange Line (New Garia to Ruby), these two rakes come as a vital addition to ease the operational load. Presently, both lines have been functioning with a limited number of rakes, leading to delays and reduced frequency in peak hours.
The newly arrived rakes are part of an eight-rake order that will be inducted over the next year. These two units mark the beginning of a broader rollout intended to stabilize and strengthen the city’s east-west and north-south metro services.
Chinese Rakes Strengthen Kolkata Metro: Key Features of the New Rakes
- Modern Three-Phase Technology: Equipped with advanced VVVF (Variable Voltage Variable Frequency) traction systems, the rakes offer better energy efficiency and smoother acceleration and braking.
- Regenerative Braking: These rakes support energy recovery during braking, contributing to energy conservation.
- Enhanced Passenger Comfort: Built with wide gangways, stainless steel interiors, and improved ventilation systems, the rakes are designed to ensure a more comfortable ride for passengers.
Trials Underway at Noapara Depot
Before being introduced into commercial service, the two rakes are undergoing extensive testing at Noapara depot. These include:
- Oscillation and brake trials
- Safety and performance evaluations
- Integration with Kolkata Metro’s Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) system
Once these tests are successfully completed and clearances are granted by relevant safety authorities, the rakes will begin passenger operations, most likely first on the Purple Line.
Addressing Shortage on Purple and Orange Lines
The Purple and Orange lines currently suffer from rake shortages. With only two rakes on the Purple Line and three on the Orange Line, services have frequently been irregular. Earlier this year, technical issues forced one of the Purple Line’s rakes out of service, resulting in long intervals and commuter inconvenience.
These new CRRC rakes are expected to bridge this gap, increasing service frequency and ensuring more dependable metro timings.
Enhancing the Reach and Reliability of Kolkata Metro
As part of its long-term vision, Kolkata Metro is expanding its network to cover more suburban and urban areas. The deployment of modern rakes is central to this vision. The Orange Line is slated for extension toward the airport, and the Purple Line is gradually progressing toward full completion between Joka and Esplanade.
Adding these rakes is expected to:
- Reduce waiting time for commuters
- Improve punctuality and reduce service interruptions
- Encourage more citizens to adopt metro travel over road transport
- Alleviate pressure on the overburdened Blue Line (North-South corridor)
Assembling in India: A Strategic Approach
Though designed by CRRC Zhuzhou, the rakes were assembled at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai. This marks a key step in India’s ongoing efforts to localize railway infrastructure under the Make in India initiative. It also facilitates faster delivery, easier maintenance, and potential technology transfer.
Future Arrivals and Network Growth
With six more CRRC rakes scheduled to arrive by mid-2026 and an additional 20 Medha-manufactured rakes expected to support the Purple, Orange, and upcoming Yellow lines, Kolkata Metro is entering a phase of fleet modernization and expansion. This comprehensive strategy is aimed at accommodating rising ridership, reducing overcrowding, and preparing for newer corridors.
Passenger Expectations and Long-Term Benefits
For daily commuters in Joka, Taratala, New Garia, and Ruby, the new rakes promise:
- Faster turnaround times
- Better onboard experience
- Higher safety standards
- More reliable metro service during rush hours
In the long term, this will likely result in a rise in metro ridership and a positive shift toward sustainable urban mobility in Kolkata.
Conclusion
The addition of two CRRC Chinese-assembled rakes is a pivotal development in Kolkata’s journey toward a modern, high-capacity metro system. While trials are ongoing, the promise of improved service is already generating optimism among regular passengers. As Kolkata Metro prepares to induct more such rakes in the coming months, the city moves closer to achieving a fast, efficient, and future-ready public transport network.
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According to Metro Railway Kolkata, the new IIM-Calcutta station will be fully elevated and designed for seamless commuter access.
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The executing agency, Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), confirmed the use of portal piers instead of traditional single piers to accommodate future linkages.
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Urban development policies supporting this project are aligned with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs‘ metro expansion mission.
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