UMTA Reviews Chandigarh Metro Expansion and Traffic Solutions in Key Meeting

The Voice of Chandigarh News:

The third meeting of the Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (UMTA) was recently held under the chairmanship of Gulab Chand Kataria, the Hon’ble Governor of Punjab and Administrator of UT Chandigarh. The meeting focused on the ongoing expansion of the Metro-Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) Network for the Chandigarh tri-city area.

Key points discussed during the meeting included:

1. MRTS Network Plan: The proposed Metro train network will span approximately 154.5 kilometers in two phases. Phase-I will cover 85.65 kilometers with 16.5 kilometers underground in heritage sectors of Chandigarh.
2. Alternative Analysis: The Alternative Analysis Report, prepared by RITES, recommended a 2-coach Metro system as the most viable option for the tri-city. The completion of Phase-I is projected by 2032, including both overhead and underground sections.
3. Geotechnical and Ridership Analysis: Detailed discussions were held on ridership estimates, geotechnical investigations, and the type of MRTS system. The need for a depot land requirement was also addressed.
4. Airport Connectivity: Proposals were reviewed for a shorter route to Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport (SBSIAC) from Purv Marg, reducing the distance from 11.6 kilometers to 3.5 kilometers. The Punjab Government reported another route option reducing the distance to 8.5 kilometers. Haryana proposed the feasibility of using the Old Airport Terminal route for better connectivity from Panchkula and Himachal Pradesh.
5. Ring Road Development: To address traffic congestion, a ring road around the tri-city area is being developed. NHAI provided updates on the Zirakpur–Panchkula bypass project aimed at decongesting traffic from Delhi and heading towards Himachal Pradesh.
6. Stakeholder Inputs: Inputs from the Chief Secretaries of Punjab and Haryana, Chandigarh International Airport Limited (CHIAL), and Air Force Station, Chandigarh, were acknowledged. Their feedback was seen as crucial for improving the transportation infrastructure and addressing traffic issues.
7. Financial Viability: Gulab Chand Kataria emphasized the need to examine the financial and economic viability of the metro system by looking at similar-sized cities where metro projects have been successfully implemented.

The meeting concluded with a decision to reconvene after a month, following further examinations and necessary evaluations. The collaborative effort of various stakeholders was praised, highlighting the commitment to resolving traffic issues and enhancing connectivity in the Chandigarh tri-city region.