Borders Re‑drawn, Tracks Re‑aligned: Purple Line Gets the Green Signal

Land swap agreement unlocks metro progress  
On November 17, RVNL and the Consulate General of Nepal signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to exchange adjoining land parcels. Under the agreement, RVNL will receive 409.53 sq. metres of land owned by the Nepal Consulate in return for 526.34 sq. metres of Metro Railway land. This exchange was essential for constructing a ramp between Mominpur and Khidderpore, a critical link for the underground stretch of the Purple Line connecting Mominpur to Esplanade.  

Officials noted that the land swap removes a long-standing hurdle, ensuring the project can move forward without further delays. The Purple Line, part of the Joka–Park Street corridor, is expected to significantly improve connectivity across south and central Kolkata once completed.  

Major takeaways  

• RVNL and Nepal Consulate sign MoU for land exchange  
• RVNL receives 409.53 sq. m of consulate land, gives 526.34 sq. m of Metro land in return  
• Ramp construction between Mominpur and Khidderpore now possible  
• Purple Line underground section (Mominpur–Esplanade) progresses after years of delay  
• Project expected to boost connectivity across Kolkata’s busy corridors  

Sources: Telegraph India, The Week, Metro Railway Kolkata