General Facts - When did the first metro train start in India? Learn the full details.
- byManasavi
- 10 Oct, 2025

Friends, as we all know, the Indian Railways, one of the largest railway departments in the world, has been established in India for centuries. Taking a step forward, metro trains have become an integral part of urban life in many Indian cities, allowing people to travel quickly, comfortably, and efficiently. But do you know where the first metro train started? Let us tell you:
India's First Metro
India's first metro train started running on October 24, 1984, in Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal. This achievement ushered in a new era of urban transportation in the country.
Initial Concept and Planning
The idea of the metro in Kolkata dates back to the 1920s, but its actual construction began much later, in the 1970s. The foundation stone was laid by the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on December 29, 1972.
Construction Challenges
The complexities and logistical constraints of building an underground transportation system posed numerous challenges during construction.
First Route and Network
The first metro service ran between Esplanade and Bhawanipur (now Netaji Bhavan). The initial network was quite small, covering only 3.4 kilometers and consisting of five stations.