State Government Announces Joint Venture for Metro Rail Expansion in Jaipur
Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan, is set to see an expansion of its Metro rail network, connecting major parts of the city with extended lines. The state government, in collaboration with the Union government, plans to operate the Metro rail lines connecting Badi Chaupar and Transport Nagar, and Mansarovar and the 200-feet bypass. This joint venture aims to ease commuting for the people of Jaipur and promote sustainable urban development.
Government-May allow private firms to buy Metro rail lines in Jaipur
In a significant development, Vaibhav Galriya, the Secretary of the Urban Development and Housing (UDH) Department, announced that the state government is considering allowing private firms to purchase Metro rail lines in bulk. This move is expected to boost the infrastructure development in Jaipur and attract private investment in the Metro rail sector. Talks are underway to finalize this agreement, and once established, the joint venture would require the state government to cover only 20 percent of the project’s construction cost.
Financial Partnership for Metro Rail Extension
To finance the Metro rail extension project, the Union government has agreed to contribute an additional 20 percent of the construction cost. The remaining 60 percent is proposed to be financed through a soft loan. This financing model has been successfully implemented for Metro rail projects across the country, with Jaipur being the only exception until now. The joint collaboration between the state and Union governments, along with private investment, will ensure the timely completion of the Metro rail lines within the proposed budget.
Construction Progress and Challenges
While Line 1D, connecting Mansarovar to the 200-feet Bypass, is reportedly progressing, Line 1C, which connects Badi Chaupar and Transport Nagar, faced a temporary halt in September. Jaipur Metro Rail Corporation (JMRC), responsible for the Metro rail expansion in Jaipur, faced financial challenges during the second phase of the project. A loan of Rs 9.69 billion was secured from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), which JMRC has been struggling to repay. However, with the joint venture and potential involvement of private firms, the financial burden on JMRC is expected to ease, allowing construction work to resume smoothly.
Proposal for Metro Route Realignment
MLA Balmukund Acharya, representing Hawa Mahal constituency, has written a request to UDH Minister Jhabar Singh Kharra to consider the realignment of the Metro route from Badi Chaupar to Ramgarh Mod via Amer Road. The proposed realignment would align with Acharya’s assembly constituency, potentially benefiting a larger population and attracting more commuters. The request highlights the need to optimize the Metro rail network to serve the specific requirements of different areas in Jaipur.
Enhancing Connectivity and Promoting Sustainable Transportation
The expansion of the Metro rail network in Jaipur not only aims to improve connectivity within the city but also serves as a sustainable transportation solution. By providing convenient and efficient public transportation, the Metro rail system encourages people to shift from private vehicles, reducing traffic congestion and air pollution. The joint venture and potential participation of private firms signify the growing interest and investment in the development of urban infrastructure in Jaipur.
With the continuous efforts of the government, Jaipur is set to witness a significant transformation in the coming years. The diversified routes of the Metro rail network will connect the city’s key areas, benefiting residents, businesses, and tourists alike. The joint venture and integration of private firms into the project outline a positive future for transportation and urban development in Jaipur.
