Prayagraj Metro Project Receives Major Expansion and Upgrade
In a significant development for urban infrastructure, the Prayagraj Metro project is undergoing a substantial transformation aimed at alleviating the city's growing traffic woes. The initiative, which seeks to streamline daily commutes and enhance connectivity across residential and commercial hubs, has been revised to offer a more comprehensive and efficient transport solution.
Expanded Network and Key Stops
The proposed Metro network has been dramatically expanded from an initial 44 kilometers to nearly 60 kilometers. This extension includes the addition of crucial stoppages such as the airport and the Sangam area, significantly broadening the system's reach and accessibility for residents and visitors alike.
Shift to Full Metro Rail System
In a pivotal change, the project will now be implemented as a full-fledged Metro Rail system, abandoning the earlier MetroLite plan. This decision is driven by improved financial viability and the availability of domestically manufactured coaches and systems, ensuring a robust and sustainable infrastructure.
The revised plan elevates the number of stations from 39 to 45, reflecting an enhanced focus on connectivity. Consequently, the total project cost is expected to exceed Rs 12,000 crore, underscoring the scale and ambition of this urban transport upgrade.
Two Corridors to Cover Key Areas
The Metro will operate along two primary corridors:
- The Bamrauli to Jhunsi City Lake route, now extended to approximately 39 kilometers.
- The Shantipuram to Chheoki stretch, spanning about 21 kilometers.
These corridors are designed to cover essential parts of the city, facilitating smoother travel for commuters.
Phase 1 Station Rollout DetailsIn the first phase of implementation, 26 stations will be established on the Bamrauli–Jhunsi stretch, while 19 stations are planned between Shantipuram and Chheoki. Each station is expected to have a stoppage time of one to two minutes, optimizing travel efficiency.
Timeline and Approvals
Track-laying work is scheduled to commence in August, with state approvals anticipated between April and May. Additionally, a fresh survey will be conducted to finalize the locations of the newly added stations, ensuring precise planning and execution.
