The National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) has initiated a temporary solution for commuters using the exposed 300-metre footbridge that connects the Ghaziabad rapid rail station with the Red Line's Shaheed Sthal New Bus Adda metro station. As part of this arrangement, umbrellas are being provided to shield commuters from the harsh sun and rain.
The process is simple: commuters can borrow an umbrella, cross the bridge, and leave it on the railing at the other end. Currently, over 100 umbrellas are available. However, officials report that 10 to 15 umbrellas go missing daily despite clear signage requesting their return.
An NCRTC official stated, "This is a temporary arrangement. It will continue until a shade and travellators are installed on the bridge. The umbrellas have been hung on the railings on both sides, and commuters are advised to use them while crossing and hang them on the railing on the other side." The corporation has placed signboards urging commuters to leave the umbrellas at the opposite end. Nevertheless, an average of 10 to 15 umbrellas are either taken or left carelessly each day.
The official added, "We have to maintain umbrella stock because some get damaged or are taken away by commuters, so we replenish it daily. However, the safety and convenience of commuters is our priority, and we will continue providing them as long as needed."
The footbridge became operational in February this year. With rising temperatures, commuters have been avoiding it. One daily commuter, Shivangi Misra, said, "We deboard a rapid rail train and then board the metro on the Red Line. Both trains are air-conditioned. But while making the change, you have to walk under the blazing sun." She described the walk as "endless."
Many commuters have started using the stretch under the footbridge, finding it easier to navigate through encroachments, a car park, and crowded auto stands than to face the scorching sun. The 300-metre footbridge was constructed by the NCRTC as part of its multimodal integration to seamlessly connect RRTS stations with other transport modes, including metro, Indian Railways, buses, and airports. However, only half the work was completed before it was opened to the public.
The corporation began the process of procuring travellators in 2025, and tenders have been awarded. Installation is expected to begin in the coming month. Once travellators are installed, the corporation will add a shade on the bridge. The work is expected to be completed only by next year. Until then, commuters will rely on the black umbrellas for cover.
