DMRC submits revised DPR for Noida Sector 62 to Sahibabad Metro Corridor

New Delhi, India (Metro Rail Today): In a significant development, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) submitted a revised detailed project report (DPR) on Monday for the proposed Metro link connecting Noida’s Sector 62 to Sahibabad in Ghaziabad. Officials from the Ghaziabad Development Authority (GDA) revealed that the revised DPR indicates an increase in project cost by approximately ₹356 crore, standing at ₹1,873.31 crore.

Background and Funding Challenges

The need for a revised DPR arose when the initial proposal, estimating the project cost at ₹1,517 crore, encountered funding challenges at the state level. GDA sources confirmed that the authority requested the DMRC to revisit the DPR, leading to the escalated cost in the revised report. The funding pattern outlined proposes 20% from the Centre and the remaining 80% from the Uttar Pradesh government. However, the state government will make the final decision on the funding breakdown.

Rajesh Kumar Singh, Secretary of GDA, highlighted the financial constraints faced by the authority and proposed that 80% of the project cost be shared by GDA, UP Awas Vikas, and other relevant agencies. The state government will ultimately determine the distribution of financial responsibilities.

Project Details and Revisions

The revised DPR outlines the construction requirements, indicating the need for 7,690.10 square metres of private land and 19,001.2 square metres of government land for the proposed Metro link. The DMRC proposes five stations along the 5.017km route, located at Vaibhav Khand, near DPS Indirapuram; Shakti Khand; Vasundhara Sector 7; and Sahibabad.

While the previous DPR shared a similar route length, stations, and funding pattern, the major revision in the new report is the notable escalation in the project cost.

Funding Dilemma and GDA's Strategy

Facing a financial crunch, GDA contemplates obtaining external loans, similar to previous instances like the Hindon elevated road and additional land compensation for the Madhuban Bapudham housing scheme. Despite the hurdles, GDA remains committed to progressing with the Noida Sector 62 to Sahibabad route, which was chosen over the Vaishali to Mohan Nagar route in 2023.

Public Response and Expectations

Local residents, who have eagerly awaited metro connectivity, express optimism with the revised DPR. UB Garg, President of 'Varishth Nagrik Samaj, Vasundhara,' an association of residents and senior citizens, anticipates swift progress in the project. The proposed Metro link not only benefits local commuters in Ghaziabad and Noida but also provides access to the Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) with a multimodal interchange hub at Sahibabad station.

As the revised DPR makes its way to the board and subsequently to the state government, the fate of the Noida Sector 62 to Sahibabad Metro link hangs in the balance. The financial intricacies, coupled with the pressing need for improved metro connectivity voiced by the residents, underscore the importance of a timely and favorable decision. The coming days will reveal the course of action as stakeholders navigate the challenges and opportunities associated with this crucial infrastructure project.