Agra Metro likely to commence operations by March 2024

Agra, Uttar Pradesh (Metro Rail Today): The Agra Metro Rail Project has earned high praise from Chief Secretary Shri Durga Shankar Mishra, who commended the project's rapid advancement and hailed it as a stellar example of the 'Make in India' initiative. Shri Mishra's visit to the ongoing metro project in the city reaffirmed the government's commitment to providing Agra with a world-class metro system well ahead of schedule.

Accompanied by MD UPMRC Shri Sushil Kumar, Shri Durga Shankar Mishra inspected the Taj East Gate station, closely examining the finishing touches, design elements, and track work on the concourse and platform areas. The Chief Secretary expressed his admiration for the UPMRC team's unwavering dedication and precision in completing the project within the stipulated timeframe. Also present during the visit were Shri Atul Kumar Garg, Director Rolling Stock, and Arvind Rai, Project Director Agra, who provided valuable guidance to the team of engineers.

Speaking about the significance of the Agra Metro Rail Project, Shri Durga Shankar Mishra emphasized its importance as a tourist hub, catering to visitors from both the nation and abroad. He lauded the UPMRC's efforts to ensure timely completion of the project, which aligns with the Indian government's vision of a self-reliant nation through the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' mission. Notably, the metro trains for the Agra Metro Project were proudly manufactured in Savli, Gujarat, in line with the 'Make in India' initiative.

"The metro stations of the Agra Metro Project boast captivating designs and aesthetics. The commendable artwork created during the G20 delegation visit to Agra adds a special touch to the project," Shri Mishra remarked.

MD UPMRC Shri Sushil Kumar expressed delight at the Chief Secretary's visit, stating that three elevated stations on the first corridor have already been completed, with finishing works nearing conclusion. He highlighted the significant progress in electrical works and shared that civil works for the underground stations are also reaching completion. Remarkably, the civil construction for three underground stations, which commenced in March 2022, is targeted for completion in an unprecedented time frame of less than two years, specifically by February 2024.

"Low-speed trials within the depot are successfully underway, and soon, high-speed train trials on the mainline viaduct will commence," added Shri Kumar.

The ongoing construction focuses on the first corridor spanning from Taj East Gate to Sikandara. The UPMRC team has achieved several milestones since the project's inauguration, completing civil construction on the 3 km long elevated stretch between Taj East Gate and Jama Masjid, with finishing works advancing rapidly. Additionally, the ramp area is ready, and the cut and cover area, where TBM (Tunnel Boring Machine) will be launched, is progressing swiftly.

Regarding the underground section, civil works are in full swing across all seven underground stations, from Taj Mahal to RBS College. The TBMs, 'Ganga' and 'Yamuna,' are currently operational on the 3 km underground stretch of the priority corridor, making steady progress towards completion. The breakthrough achieved by TBM 'Yamuna' in a record time of 72 days at Agra Fort Metro Station, launched by Hon’ble Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Yogi Adityanath on 6th February 2023, stands as a testament to the project's efficiency. TBM Ganga has also achieved its breakthrough, and both machines will soon be retrieved near Taj Mahal Metro Station.

Simultaneously, the track and third rail system in the depot and all stations are being diligently installed. A successful First Metro Trial was conducted in May on the test track, which included testing of braking, train systems, and third rail power.

The UPMRC remains fully committed to delivering the project six months ahead of its initial deadline. With the revised completion target now set for February 2024, Agra can anticipate an exceptional metro rail system that aligns with the city's stature as a world-renowned destination.