Kolkata: A six-member high-level team of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), headed by Saito Mitsunori, on Friday expressed satisfaction with the progress of the metro rail stretch at Bowbazar and the tunnel between Esplanade and Sealdah, a Kolkata Metro Rail Corporation Limited's spokesman said.

Their visit and inspection are part of a review mission and they inspected the works at the Bowbazar and the tunnel between Esplanade and Sealdah, he said.

"After the visit, they had a detailed discussion with KMRCL team headed by MD/KMRCL. JICA expressed satisfaction for the progress, quality and safety standards being followed for the execution of the project," the KMRCL said in a statement.

Kolkata’s Bowbazar area is dotted with several old buildings, some dating back to more than 100 years.

In August 2019, during the construction of the metro tunnel in Bowbazar, Kolkata, there was a significant subsidence that led to damage to several buildings.

The incident occurred due to the impact of the tunnel boring machine on an aquifer, causing water inflow and ground settlement.

The incident resulted in the displacement of residents, damage to structures, and posed challenges for the Kolkata Metro Railway Corporation (KMRC) in addressing the situation.

The incident elicited concerns about safety, rehabilitation, and the impact on the overall metro project.