Japan keen to partner Kolkata on metro project

NEW DELHI: After its successful tryst with Delhi Metro, Japan is preparing to partner a similar project in Kolkata but wants to "phase out" from the Capital's mass transport system.

Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) has plans for several projects to modernise and expand the metro rail system in the eastern metropolis.

"The Kolkata Metro project is on the table. We have not discussed the amount yet but we are giving it a favourable consideration," Japan's Ambassador to India Yasukuni Enoki told media in an interview.

He appreciated Delhi Metro officials for commissioning a "very high quality project" ahead of schedule and expressed willingness to work on similar projects in other Indian cities.

JBIC has already signed an Memorandum of Understanding for the Bangalore Metro project to which it has assured to grant a 10-year loan. However, Japan appeared keen to exit the Delhi Metro project which Enoki said was spreading across the National Capital Region.

"You have it going till Manesar. It may further go to Rajasthan," he said, adding that Japan has to take a decision on the duration of its association with the project.

Enoki said the entire ownership of the Delhi Metro project, eventually, has to be in the hands of India. "In the begining it was alright... We have to phase out. That is a sound way," the envoy said.