Kolkata’s Joka‑Esplanade Purple Line saw Tunnel Boring Machine ‘Divya’ break through the final tunnel at Victoria Station on August 11, paving the way for the delayed project’s next phase.

Key Takeaways

  • Divya completed the second tunnel at Victoria Station
  • Purple Line slated for full operation by 2029
  • Two TBMs working simultaneously on the Kidderpore‑Victoria stretch

Current Project Status

On August 11, around noon, the Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) Divya achieved a successful breakthrough at Victoria Metro Station, marking the completion of the second and final tunnel for Kolkata’s Joka‑Esplanade Purple Line. The first tunnel had been completed on July 10.

Two TBMs—‘Durga’ and ‘Divya’—are excavating twin tunnels from Kidderpore to Park Street, after which conventional cut‑and‑cover methods will continue the work. This coordinated effort accelerates the overall timeline for the line.

Historical Background

The construction of the Joka‑Esplanade line began in 2011 but faced repeated delays due to land acquisition hurdles, drainage challenges, and environmental clearances. Despite these setbacks, the deployment of two TBMs in 2025 revitalized the project, allowing steady progress on the 1.75 km Kidderpore‑Victoria segment.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the final tunnel breakthrough is a pivotal milestone for Kolkata’s metro expansion, promising to ease traffic congestion and stimulate economic growth in West Bengal’s capital.

"The successful tunnel breakthrough at Victoria marks a new chapter for urban mobility in Kolkata," said urban transport expert Dr. Anita Mehta.
Did You Know?: Once operational, the Purple Line will push Kolkata’s total metro network length beyond 40 km.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: When will the Purple Line be fully operational?
Answer: The line is expected to be inaugurated and open for public use by 2029.

Question 2: What are the specifications of TBM ‘Divya’?
Answer: Divya is a face‑edged TBM capable of boring a 1.75 km tunnel in roughly 30 months, equipped with advanced navigation and safety systems.