Kolkata’s Kavi Subhas Metro Shut for a Year After Cracks Found

Kavi Subhas, popularly known as New Garia Metro Station in the southern part of Kolkata, has been suddenly closed for almost a year after serious cracks were detected in several of its key pillars. Metro authorities, prioritizing passenger safety, have suspended all services to the terminal station. Engineers have revealed that four major columns on the up platform developed cracks, making the station unsafe for any passenger movement. Heavy rainfall and soil settlement, combined with a flaw in the foundation design, have been identified as the primary causes of the damage. Experts said the station was built on a raft foundation where a deep piled foundation should have been used.

In response to the crisis, the Metro Railway has decided to demolish and rebuild the entire station. Work has already begun to remove the station’s roof, signaling equipment, and other installations. Officials estimate that the reconstruction will take at least nine months to a year to complete. During this period, metro services will operate between Dakshineswar and Shahid Khudiram, but trains will no longer carry passengers to Kavi Subhas. Only empty rakes will occasionally go to the station for maintenance and reversal purposes.

The sudden closure has caused severe hardship for daily commuters. Around 22,000 passengers used this terminal every day, and now many are forced to spend extra time and money to reach their destinations. Auto-rickshaw fares between Shahid Khudiram and New Garia have shot up to ₹40–50 per ride, while the overall commute has become longer and costlier. For many, the experience is reminiscent of the pre-2010 days, before South Kolkata enjoyed the convenience of metro connectivity.

The shutdown has affected not just commuters but also local shopkeepers, whose businesses have declined sharply. Auto drivers, on the other hand, are seeing higher earnings due to the increased demand. Metro authorities have assured that every effort will be made to minimize passenger inconvenience, but for now, Kolkata commuters must brace for months of disruption until the station is rebuilt and reopened.