In a major step toward sustainable urban transport, Metro Railway, Kolkata has begun upgrading Blue Line’s ventilation and cooling systems. The initiative will modernize 15 underground stations over the next four years. The transformation will reduce energy costs, conserve groundwater, and redefine commuter comfort.

Introduction:

Metro Railway, Kolkata has formally commenced the long-awaited upgradation of the Tunnel Ventilation System (TVS) and Environment Control System (ECS) across the Blue Line’s underground stations. The project was inaugurated on February 4, 2026, at Noapara Carshed in the presence of Shri Subhransu S. Mishra, General Manager, senior Metro officials, and members of MRWWO.

With a total investment of Rs. 585 crores and a completion timeline of four years, the initiative marks a transformative step toward enhancing passenger comfort, operational efficiency, and environmental sustainability.

Cooling System Upgrade Across 15 Underground Stations:

The project covers 15 underground stations of the Blue Line and introduces an energy-efficient, environment-friendly cooling solution.

Key Changes in ECS:

Currently, approximately 18 crore litres of groundwater are consumed annually to operate water-cooled chillers. With the transition to air-cooled chillers, this massive water usage will be completely eliminated, leading to:

This move represents a major environmental milestone for the Metro Railway.

State-of-the-Art Tunnel Ventilation System:

The Tunnel Ventilation System, now 41 years old, is also undergoing a complete overhaul. Originally designed for non-air-conditioned rakes, the old system focused primarily on tunnel cooling.

However, with the complete transition to air-conditioned rakes, Metro Railway now has the opportunity to modernize the ventilation infrastructure.

Existing System:

Though installation of Variable Frequency Drives (VFD) during 2021–22 reduced energy consumption by nearly half, a comprehensive upgrade was still necessary.

Advanced Axial Fans with Enhanced Fire Safety:

Under the new system:

This intelligent and automated smoke extraction system significantly strengthens fire safety mechanisms and aligns Blue Line operations with global metro standards.

Financial and Environmental Gains:

The modernization will deliver substantial economic and ecological benefits:

The project is being executed by an Indian subsidiary of a Japanese company whose holding company has successfully commissioned ECS and TVS systems in over 100 underground metro stations in Singapore. This ensures global expertise and high-quality execution.

A New Chapter for Kolkata Metro:

The upgradation work is not just a technological improvement but a strategic shift toward sustainability, safety, and passenger comfort. The familiar landscape of cooling towers outside stations will soon disappear, symbolizing a cleaner and more modern Metro system.

Conclusion:

The Rs. 585 crore modernization of Blue Line’s ventilation and cooling systems signals a bold step toward sustainability and enhanced commuter safety. By saving water, cutting energy costs, and strengthening fire response mechanisms, Kolkata Metro is setting new benchmarks in eco-friendly urban transport and long-term infrastructure resilience.

Source: Metro Railway Kolkata – Press Release | Image Credit: Metro Railway Kolkata

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