As Kolkata prepares to welcome 2026, the city's Metro Railway has rolled out an extensive plan to ensure the safety and smooth movement of thousands of revellers expected to throng Park Street and its adjoining areas on New Year's Eve. The comprehensive strategy includes extended train services, a massive security blanket, and specialised emergency teams to handle any situation.
Enhanced Security and Surveillance for Public Safety
A robust security apparatus will be activated across Kolkata's Metro network on December 31. Key stations, including Park Street, Esplanade, Maidan, Rabindra Sadan, Dum Dum, and Dakshineswar, will witness a significant deployment of personnel. The security plan features several specialised components:
Specialised dog squads will conduct thorough security checks at stations and along the tracks throughout the night to deter any untoward incidents. The Central Control Room will maintain a vigilant watch over all operations via round-the-clock CCTV surveillance.
To manage the anticipated large crowds, authorities will use ropes, loud hailers, and queue managers on platforms to prevent dangerous overcrowding. In a move focused on women's safety, the Metro has deployed additional women Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel to specifically assist women and children during the rush.
Quick Response and Extended Metro Services
At the heart of the emergency preparedness are the Quick Response Teams (QRTs) and standby emergency teams. These units will be strategically stationed at Park Street, Esplanade, and Maidan to deal swiftly with any medical or security emergencies that may arise during the celebrations.
To prevent commuters from being stranded after midnight festivities, the Metro Railway will operate eight additional services on the Blue Line after 9:40 pm. This includes four services in each direction (up and down). The special schedule is designed to facilitate a smooth return journey for all.
The detailed schedule for additional Blue Line services is as follows:
From Dakshineswar (towards Shahid Khudiram Station): 9:40 pm, 9:52 pm, 10:05 pm, 10:18 pm.
From Shahid Khudiram (towards Dakshineswar/Dum Dum): 9:54 pm (to Dakshineswar), 10:04 pm (to Dakshineswar), 10:17 pm (to Dakshineswar), and 10:30 pm (last special service to Dum Dum).
A Call for Cooperation for a Seamless Celebration
Metro Railway officials have emphasised their goal of ensuring a hassle-free experience for every citizen during the year-end transition. They have issued a request for all commuters to cooperate fully with Metro staff and security personnel on the ground. This collaborative effort is seen as crucial for managing the large influx of people and ensuring that the switch into the New Year is both joyous and safe for everyone in the City of Joy.
The elaborate arrangements underscore the administration's focus on pre-emptive planning and crowd management for one of the biggest public celebrations in Kolkata, centred around the iconic Park Street.
