Where is India's First Underground Metro Railways system established?
VerifiedAnswer: Kolkata
Explanation:
India's first underground metro railway system was established in Kolkata, making it a historic milestone in the country's urban transportation development. The Kolkata Metro, officially known as the Kolkata Metro Railway, began its commercial operations on October 24, 1984, with the first section running between Esplanade and Bhowanipur (now Netaji Bhawan).
The idea of an underground metro system in Kolkata dates back to the 1960s when the city was facing severe traffic congestion and overcrowding. The project was conceived to provide a fast, reliable, and efficient mode of public transportation for the bustling metropolis. Construction began in the 1970s, and it took over a decade to complete the first operational section.
The Kolkata Metro system runs primarily underground through the heart of the city, covering a distance of approximately 27 kilometers. It connects major areas including Dumdum in the north to Tollygunge in the south, passing through important commercial and residential hubs like Shyambazar, Girish Park, Central, Park Street, and Rabindra Sarobar.
What makes the Kolkata Metro particularly significant is that it was not only India's first but also the first metro system in entire South Asia. This achievement positioned India as a pioneer in modern urban rail transportation in the region. The system was built with technical assistance from various international experts and incorporated modern safety features and efficient design principles.
The success of Kolkata Metro paved the way for metro systems in other major Indian cities. Following Kolkata's example, cities like Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, Mumbai, and Hyderabad have developed their own metro networks, transforming urban transportation across the country. Today, the Kolkata Metro continues to serve millions of passengers annually and remains an integral part of the city's public transportation system.
