The Supreme Court of India has strongly reprimanded the West Bengal government over delays in the Kolkata Metro’s Orange Line project, questioning the state’s handling of a key urban infrastructure development.
Hearing a petition related to the stalled construction at the Chingrighata crossing, the court criticised the state for failing to facilitate work despite earlier directions. The bench observed that the government was avoiding its responsibilities and unnecessarily delaying a project meant for public benefit.
The court dismissed the state’s plea seeking more time, where it had cited upcoming elections and logistical challenges such as traffic management and festivals as reasons for the delay. The judges made it clear that development projects cannot be stalled on such grounds, stressing that public infrastructure must take priority.
The delay primarily concerns a critical 366-metre gap in the viaduct at Chingrighata, which is essential to complete the Orange Line corridor. Construction work has been held up due to the lack of permission for traffic blockades, required to install key structural segments.
The court also remarked that the state’s approach reflected a “dereliction of constitutional duty” and warned against politicising infrastructure projects that are intended to serve the public. It emphasised that authorities are obligated to support such works and ensure timely completion.
The Orange Line, which will connect New Garia to the airport, is a crucial corridor for improving urban mobility in Kolkata. Delays in completing this stretch have already impacted timelines and project execution.
With the Supreme Court refusing to grant relief to the state government, the focus is now on accelerating construction and ensuring compliance with earlier court directives, so that the long-pending metro link can be completed without further setbacks.
