Kolkata is set to take a major leap in urban mobility with the launch of the Yellow Line connecting Noapara to Jai Hind Bimanbandar. Spanning nearly seven kilometres, the new stretch is designed to provide faster and smoother access to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport. For the city’s commuters, it promises a much-needed reduction in traffic congestion, while for air travellers, it offers an easier and more comfortable journey to and from the airport.
But the Yellow Line is more than just a transport upgrade. It invites passengers to rediscover North Kolkata through its new and revived stations. The route brings with it an opportunity to experience the region’s rich mix of colonial heritage, cultural landmarks, and historic neighbourhoods that often get overlooked in the rush of daily life.
At Dum Dum Cantonment, the journey meets history. This area holds traces of colonial Bengal, with landmarks like the House of Lord Clive and the Old Cannon near Balaka Natun Bazar. The Basak Palace in Manoshipara echoes the grandeur of a past era, while the Adyapeath Temple draws devotees throughout the year. Just a short ride away, the Dakshineswar Kali Temple and Belur Math continue to attract visitors for their spiritual and architectural significance.
Jessore Road adds another layer of depth to the experience. This busy artery carries memories of the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971, when countless refugees walked along this path to find safety in India. American poet Allen Ginsberg immortalised their plight in his poem “September on Jessore Road.” Today, the stretch bustles with life, connecting communities while also standing as a reminder of resilience and history. Along the way, visitors encounter tributes like the Mother Teresa Statue and can venture into Kumartuli, the famous quarter where artisans craft idols that travel far beyond Bengal.
Noapara, the other end of the line, is more than just a starting point. It is a neighbourhood with its own spiritual and historic significance. The Old Kali Bari temple continues to be a site of devotion, while Kashipur Udyanbati, once the residence of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahansa, opens a window into Bengal’s spiritual legacy. A short ride away, Barrackpore’s Gandhi Ghat pays homage to India’s freedom movement.
The Yellow Line is not only about speed and connectivity but also about drawing attention to the city’s layered identity. For residents, it means convenience. For travellers, it means new ways to discover the cultural richness of Kolkata.
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