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Kolkata Metro Completes Initial Aluminium Third Rail Conversion on Blue Line

Phase II began between Park Street and Dum Dum targeting faster trains through reduced energy losses before full completion in December 2025.

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Overview

  • The first phase replaced the steel third rail with aluminium between Shyambazar and Mahanayak Uttam Kumar on the down line and between Shyambazar and Park Street on the up line without disrupting service.
  • The Railway Board approved the overhaul in 2023–24 and awarded the contract to a German supplier, with key components arriving from Hamburg in July 2024.
  • Aluminium’s superior conductivity is expected to cut voltage drops and slash energy losses by up to 84%, saving about Rs 1 crore per kilometre each year.
  • Phase II work now covers the up line from Park Street to Tollygunge and both tracks between Shyambazar and Dum Dum.
  • All conversion work is scheduled during non-commercial hours and aims to cover the entire 34 km Blue Line by December 2025, aligning Kolkata with major metro systems worldwide.