Overview
The Kolkata Metro is a rapid transit system serving Kolkata and the surrounding metropolitan region in West Bengal, India. It is India's fourth largest and fourth busiest metro rail system, with 5 colour-coded lines, 58 operational stations, and a total length of 73.42 km. As the first rapid transit system in South Asia, opened in 1984, it remains unique as the only metro system in India controlled entirely by Indian Railways. Trains operate daily between 06:30 and 22:44 IST.
To ride the system end to end, you purchase a ticket (available as single journeys or day passes), enter through the station entrance, navigate to your platform, board the train, and exit at your destination. The metro uses a mix of underground, at-grade, and elevated stations on both broad-gauge and standard-gauge tracks powered by 750 V DC third rail.
The network
Kolkata Metro comprises five colour-coded lines serving the city and surrounding areas:
- Blue Line (Dakshineswar to New Garia): The original north–south corridor, partially opened in 1984 and fully connected by 1995. It includes an elevated extension opened in phases between 2009 and 2010.
- Green Line (East–West Corridor, currently Salt Lake Sector V to Howrah Maidan): A truncated section opened in 2020. Howrah metro station on this line is the deepest metro station in India, with a depth of 34 m (112 ft), and was the largest metro station in India at the time of its inauguration.
- Purple Line (Joka–Eden Gardens Corridor, currently truncated at Majerhat): Opened in 2022.
- Orange Line (Kavi Subhash to Beleghata): Opened in 2024.
- Yellow Line (Noapara to Jai Hind): Opened in 2025. Jai Hind metro station on this line became India's largest metro station in August 2025, and is also one of the largest in Asia.
Beyond the metro, Kolkata is served by several other public transport systems:
- Suburban rail: Local trains run from major railway stations including Howrah, Sealdah, Kolkata, Santragachi Junction, and Shalimar, serving destinations across the metropolitan region.
- Buses: State-run and private air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned buses connect the airport, railway stations, and throughout the city.
- Ferries: Ferry services (locally called "ghats") operate across the Hooghly River, including a service near Howrah Station.
- Taxis and cabs: Prepaid taxis and app-based services (Ola and Uber) are available throughout the city.
Tickets & fares
Tickets for the Kolkata Metro are available at station ticket counters and can be purchased for individual journeys or as day passes. The system uses a fare structure, though specific current fares are not detailed in available sources. Tickets are typically purchased before boarding and validated at entry gates.
A smartcard or tap-to-ride system may be available; check with station staff or the official operator website for details on electronic payment options and any visitor passes that may reduce costs for multiple journeys.
Around 300 daily train trips carry more than 800,000 passengers, indicating frequent service throughout operating hours (06:30 to 22:44 IST).
From the airport
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (Dum Dum Airport) is located approximately 18 km (11 mi) outside the city centre. You have several public transport options to reach central Kolkata:
- Metro: The airport is served by Jai Hind station (Yellow Line), located in front of the parking lot. This is a direct, cost-effective option to reach the city centre.
- Bus: State-run air-conditioned buses depart from outside the arrival gate and provide a cheaper alternative to taxis. You can take a bus and then hail a taxi from the city centre to reach your final destination.
- Prepaid taxi: Prepaid taxis are available at the airport, typically costing ₹150–250 and offering direct transport to your destination. Note that tipping is not practiced in India.
- App-based cabs: Services such as Ola and Uber operate from the airport and can be booked through their mobile applications.
During busy hours, a prepaid taxi or metro may be preferable to avoid delays; however, the metro is generally the most economical option if you are not carrying excessive luggage.
Etiquette & customs
While specific local customs for the Kolkata Metro are not detailed in the provided sources, general Indian public transport etiquette applies:
- Queuing: Queue orderly at ticket counters and station gates; do not push or crowd ahead of others.
- Priority seating: Respect reserved seats for elderly passengers, people with disabilities, and other priority groups. Offer your seat if you are able.
- Escalators: Specific guidance on which side to stand is not provided; observe local passengers and follow their practice.
- Eating and drinking: Check posted station rules; consuming food or beverages may be restricted in certain areas.
- Rush-hour behaviour: During peak commuting hours (morning and evening), trains become very crowded. Be prepared for congestion, keep your belongings secure, and allow passengers to exit before boarding.
Official links
No official website URL for the Kolkata Metro operator was provided in the source materials. For the most current information on routes, fares, schedules, and journey planning, inquire at your nearest metro station or contact the operator directly.
Survival terms
- মেট্রো (Metro) – Rapid transit railway
- টিকেট (Ticket) – Fare token or pass
- লাইন (Line) – Route or corridor
- প্রবেশদ্বার (Praveśdwār, Entrance) – Way in
- বের হওয়ার পথ (Ber hawār path, Exit) – Way out
- ট্রান্সফার (Transfer) – Change of line
- একক যাত্রা (Ekak jātrā, Single fare) – One-way ticket
- দৈনিক পাস (Dainik pāś, Day pass) – All-day travel ticket
Keep small denominations of Indian currency (rupees) handy, as change-making can be slow during rush hours and some ticket counters may have limited notes available.