NMRC Board Approves ₹2,254.35 crore Sector 142-Botanical Garden Line of Noida Metro

Noida, India (Metro Rail Today): In a significant development, the Noida Metro Rail Corporation (NMRC) board has given its approval to the revised Detailed Project Report (DPR) for a new metro corridor connecting Sector-142 to the Botanical Garden in Noida. This approval marks a crucial step forward for the 11.56 km elevated line along the Noida – Greater Noida Expressway's eastern service lane.

Key Details of the Approved Project

The proposed elevated line is expected to serve as a spur of the operational 29.7 km Aqua Line, running along the eastern service lane of the Noida – Greater Noida Expressway. The corridor will boast 8 new elevated stations, enhancing connectivity for commuters. The stations are strategically located at Botanical Garden (offering interchange with Delhi Metro's Blue and Magenta lines), Noida Sector-44, Noida Authority Office, Noida Sector-97, Noida Sector-105, Noida Sector-108, Noida Sector-93, and Panchsheel Balak Inter College.

Estimated Cost and Project Preparation

The project is anticipated to cost Rs. 2254.35 crore, and the revised DPR was meticulously prepared by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), the entity responsible for operating and maintaining the Aqua Line that connects Noida and Greater Noida.

Evolution of the Metro Line Concept

The concept of a metro line connecting Sector-142 to the Botanical Gardens has been in consideration since 2015. The initial draft of the DPR in June 2022 proposed just 5 stations at Sectors 46, Sector 47, Sector 108, Biodiversity Park, and Sector 91. However, to optimize ridership and improve connectivity, a revision was deemed necessary, leading to the current approval.

Next Steps in the Approval Process

The approved revised DPR has been forwarded to the Noida Authority for their feedback and final approval. Subsequently, the DPR will be presented to the Uttar Pradesh government for cabinet approval, marking the next crucial phase in the project's progression.

Aqua Line's Northern Extension

While this approval signifies a positive stride for Sector 142 to the Botanical Garden Line, there has been no significant progress on the Aqua Line's northern extension from Noida's Sector-51 to Greater Noida West's Sector-2. Despite GR Infraprojects being declared the lowest bidder for its construction in December 2021, the awarding of the contract has been delayed.

The approval from the NMRC board for the Sector 142 to Botanical Garden Line underscores the commitment to enhancing Noida's metro connectivity. As the project moves through the approval phases, residents can anticipate improved transit options and increased connectivity in the near future.