Written by Debasmita Chowdhury
Kolkata Metro authorities on Friday unveiled new amenities across multiple stations as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance commuter services and facilities. General Manager P Uday Kumar Reddy inaugurated a digital locker facility at Howrah Metro station on Green Line-2, marking the launch of this smart storage solution. The ceremony was attended by senior Metro Railway officials.
The new digital locker system allows passengers to securely store luggage of various sizes at reasonable rates, enabling them to attend to other business or programmes without carrying their belongings. Commuters can utilise the service for up to 12 hours daily at the Howrah location.
Reddy emphasized Metro Railway’s commitment to upgrading facilities across different stations.
The digital locker service will soon be expanded to additional stations, including Dakshineswar, Sealdah, Park Street, Mahanayak Uttam Kumar, and Esplanade.
Reddy also launched relaxation chair services at the Esplanade Metro station on the Blue Line. The general manager highlighted that this amenity would help commuters alleviate tiredness and relax strained muscles at affordable prices, thereby improving their overall travel experience. Similar relaxation chair facilities are planned for the Dakshineswar Metro station, he said.
The Metro authorities are also preparing to introduce branded food outlets at various stations. Contracts have been finalised for setting up such outlets at Howrah and Sealdah stations. Additionally, a Multi-Shopping Arcade is scheduled to open at the Dakshineswar Metro station to offer commuters access to household essentials and daily necessities. The contract for this retail facility has already been awarded.
Kolkata Metro has previously established Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Kendra (PMBJK) outlets at Netaji, Dakshineswar, and Sealdah stations to provide quality medicines at competitive prices. Another pharmacy outlet will open at Kavi Subhas station on the Orange Line shortly, officials said.