KOLKATA – In a move to ensure technical continuity for Kolkata’s expanding metro network, the Ministry of Railways has assigned Shri Susanta Sarkar (IRSSE) the additional charge of Director (Rolling Stock, Signaling & Telecommunications – RS&T) at the Kolkata Metro Rail Corporation Limited (KMRCL).
The official order, issued on February 3, 2026, allows Sarkar to assume this critical responsibility alongside his current role as the Principal Chief Signal & Telecommunication Engineer (PCSTE) of Metro Railway, Kolkata.
A Seasoned Technical Strategist
Susanta Sarkar is a high-ranking officer of the Indian Railway Service of Signal Engineers (IRSSE) from the 1991 batch. With over three decades of experience, he is recognized for his expertise in modernizing railway signaling and telecommunication infrastructure.
Key Career Highlights:
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Technical Depth: Expert in implementing CBTC (Communication-Based Train Control) systems, which are essential for the high-frequency operations of the East-West Metro.
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Returning Veteran: Sarkar previously served on deputation at KMRCL before returning to the Eastern Railway and subsequently being posted as PCSTE at Metro Railway, Kolkata.
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Empanelment: He has been empanelled at the Joint Secretary (JS) level by the Government of India, reflecting his senior administrative standing.
KMRCL and the 2026 Expansion Goal
Sarkar’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment as KMRCL races to complete major stretches of the Green Line (East-West corridor). The corporation is tasked with managing the sophisticated rolling stock and signaling systems required for India’s first underwater metro section.
| Metric | KMRCL Status (Feb 2026) |
| Operational Line | Green Line (Salt Lake Sector V to Howrah Maidan) |
| New Milestone | Full run of East-West Metro achieved in early 2026 |
| Key Responsibility | Ensuring seamless integration of Rolling Stock (Trains) and Signaling. |
| Funding | Received ₹529 crore in Union Budget 2026 for Phase II. |
Tenure and Oversight
According to the Railway Board, Sarkar will hold the additional charge until:
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The completion of the project.
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His superannuation (retirement).
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Any further orders from the Ministry of Railways.
This move is expected to streamline decision-making between the executing agency (KMRCL) and the operational wing (Metro Railway, Kolkata), particularly for the technical maintenance of the aging Blue Line and the high-tech systems of the Orange and Purple lines.
