New Delhi, India (Metro Rail Today): According to a senior official from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), the Uttarakhand government has recently submitted a comprehensive Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the proposed Neo Metro system in Dehradun. The DPR is currently "under appraisal," indicating that the authorities are carefully evaluating the feasibility and potential impact of the project. Notably, this initiative is anticipated to be the country's inaugural Neo Metro system, set to operate along two designated corridors within Dehradun.
Jaideep, Officer On Special Duty (Urban Transport) at MoHUA, emphasized the unique nature of the Neo Metro, highlighting its rubber-tyre system, which necessitates a thorough assessment of all relevant aspects. He further explained that the appraisal process involves a comprehensive examination of traffic projections, anticipated returns, and other crucial elements of the project. With the proposed plan encompassing two key corridors, the evaluation process is expected to account for the multifaceted nature of the initiative, ensuring a comprehensive and informed decision-making process.
In other related developments, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) is currently hosting the 16th Urban Mobility India Conference and Exhibition in the national capital, featuring the active participation of various metro systems from across the country. This significant event serves as a platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing among prominent stakeholders in the urban transportation sector.
In response to inquiries about the reported "provide on demand" (POD) service proposed for Haridwar by the Uttarakhand government, Jaideep clarified that the ministry has yet to receive any official proposal concerning this initiative. The statement underlines the necessity for a formal submission and evaluation process before any potential developments can be considered.
Moreover, Jaideep revealed that Nasik has also submitted a DPR for a Neo Metro project, which is currently undergoing various stages of approval. This demonstrates a growing trend of innovative urban transportation solutions being explored and proposed by various state governments, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to enhance and modernize public transportation infrastructure across the country.
As the evaluation process continues, the MoHUA remains committed to fostering an environment of sustainable and efficient urban mobility, encouraging the exploration and implementation of progressive initiatives to address the evolving needs of India's dynamic urban landscapes.