“When will the VIP Bazar metro station finally open?” That’s the question on everyone’s lips around here. The VIP Bazar metro station. It’s more than just a station. It’s a symbol of progress. It represents easier commutes for countless people.
The station is part of Kolkata’s Orange Line. It will serve Tiljala and VIP Nagar. The name comes from this very market we’re standing in. VIP Bazar.
Imagine this area bustling with even more energy. Commuters will pour out of the elevated station right into the heart of VIP Bazar. The Eastern Metropolitan Bypass runs right beneath it. VIP Nagar and VIP Bazar will be even more connected.
This project was envisioned back in 2010-11. Mamata Banerjee sanctioned it. The initial deadline was six years. RVNL is handling the execution. The cost is estimated at Rs 3951.98 crore. This line promises faster travel to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport. That will benefit everyone.
Construction started in January 2012. But there were hurdles. Land disputes at Tagore Park culvert halted progress in 2015. Work resumed in May 2017. Finally, in March 2024, a major milestone. RVNL completed a 76-meter viaduct gap. This involved building a steel bridge over the Tagore Park culvert. Trial runs are underway as of March 2024.
The VIP Bazar station itself is an elevated structure. It has three levels. The ground level is for entrances and exits. The second level houses fare control. You will also find station agents and vending machines there. The top level holds the platforms and tracks. The station stretches 200 meters long and 25 meters wide.
Accessibility is a priority here at VIP Bazar. Four entrances and exits will serve passengers. Lifts and escalators will be available. Basic amenities like drinking water and toilets are included.
Like other Kolkata Metro lines, VIP Bazar will use a 750-volt DC third rail. This provides the electricity to power the trains. A communication based train control signaling system will manage train movement. This advanced system allows trains to run every 90 seconds. That will significantly increase efficiency.
Although services haven’t started yet, anticipation is building. The expected opening is in 2024. Very soon, the VIP Bazar metro station will transform this area. It will connect communities and drive economic growth. We are waiting excitedly.