IPL 2025: Kolkata Metro to Run Special Services for Opening Match

When the reigning champion Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) play the first game of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) at Eden Gardens on Saturday, March 22, Kolkata Metro has announced special late-night services on the Blue Line and Green Line-2. The purpose of this setup is to give gamegoers comfortable transportation.

The Blue Line and Green Line-2 will be the routes for these services. The project intends to make it easier for cricket fans to travel from Kolkata and the surrounding areas. Booking desks at Old Esplanade Metro Station and New Esplanade Metro Station will remain open for the sale of Smart Cards, Tokens, and Paper-Based QR Tickets during the special service period. The standard fare will be supplemented by a fee of Rs 10 per ticket.

KKR vs RCB IPL 2025:

In response to KKR's request, the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) decided to run extended metro services. Given the number of spectators expected at the Eden Gardens, officials have taken careful precautions to prevent overcrowding and ensure seamless transport choices for supporters returning home late at night.  

SPECIAL BLUE LINE SERVICES:

Towards Dakshineswar (UP direction): At 00:15, a special metro (Spl. 1) will leave Esplanade and arrive in Dakshineswar at 00:48.

Towards Kavi Subhas (DN direction): At 00:15, another special metro (Spl.2) will depart from Esplanade and reach Kavi Subhas at 00:48. Along their respective routes, both services will make stops at every station.

Green Line-2 Special Service:

Towards Howrah Maidan: From Esplanade, a single special train (Spl.1) will depart at 00:15 and arrive in Howrah Maidan at 00:23.

KKR vs RCB Weather Report:

In the meantime, the season-opening may be spoiled by the weather. Due to an anticyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast thunderstorms, lightning, and significant rainfall in Kolkata through March 22. Additionally, from March 20 to 22, the Regional Meteorological Center has issued an orange signal for certain areas of West Bengal.

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