Kolkata Metro authorities have proposed an extension of the Joka-Esplanade Purple Line by 1.6 km to include a new station at Eden Gardens. This development is set to benefit cricket and football fans and daily commuters to nearby areas such as Strand Road, Babughat, Calcutta High Court, and BBD Bag.The proposal has been submitted to the Railway Board for approval. Initially, the plan was to link Eden Gardens to Esplanade via a subway, but the revised proposal now suggests a direct metro station for greater convenience, easing congestion and offering a faster travel option for commuters.Currently, the 14.4-km Purple Line features eight elevated stations and four underground stations, with the operational section running from Joka to Majerhat. The eighth station at Mominpur is under construction. If approved, the Eden Gardens extension will be the terminal station near Gate No. 1 of Eden Gardens, close to the Mohun Bagan football ground.The shift of the underground crossover point to Strand Road will also help preserve several trees near Manohar Des Tarag. The existing plan for a Metro hub at Esplanade, including a commercial plaza and underground parking, will remain intact. Metro sources believe that the extension will enhance connectivity and help ease the city's traffic.With 750,000 daily passengers already using the system, this extension will make the metro more accessible to people from areas like HC, Millennium Park, and Strand Road.