The Jaipur Metro Railway Corporation Limited (JMRCL) has decided to discard previous Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for Line 2 and is preparing two new reports, with the Rail India Technical and Economic Service (RITES) assigned to the task. This decision follows the earlier DPR's revision, which reduced the project cost but compromised essential elements. Key adjustments are needed for the metro corridor's alignment due to ongoing traffic projects. JMRCL aims to ensure that the new designs align with long-term traffic growth projections, reflecting its commitment to sustainable urban transport solutions for Jaipur.
In a strategic move aimed at enhancing urban transport efficiency, the Jaipur Metro Railway Corporation Limited (JMRCL) has decided to discontinue its previous Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for Line 2. Instead, the corporation is embarking on the preparation of two new, distinct DPRs designed specifically for this crucial transit line. Officials have confirmed that the Rail India Technical and Economic Service (RITES) will be responsible for crafting these updated reports.
A senior official from JMRCL, who preferred to remain anonymous, clarified that the two tenders will focus on different segments of Line 2. One DPR will encompass the route from India Gate in Sanganer to Ambabari, while the other will concentrate on the stretch extending from Ambabari to Vidhyadhar Nagar. Earlier this week, Finance Minister Diya Kumari underscored this extension during the state budget presentation, highlighting the government's commitment to improving urban transport infrastructure.
The decision to shelve the earlier DPR for Line 2, originally prepared by the Delhi Metro Railway Corporation Limited (DMRCL) in 2012, is driven by several factors. This previous DPR had already undergone a revision in 2020, when the state government successfully reduced the projected project cost from INR 9,500 crores to INR 4,546 crores. However, officials noted that this cost reduction came with significant compromises that now necessitate further changes.
One of the primary reasons for abandoning the earlier DPR is the need for adjustments to the alignment and height of the metro corridor along the stretch between B2B Crossing and Rambagh Circle on Tonk Road. This requirement has arisen due to various traffic projects executed by the state government, necessitating a reassessment of the original design to ensure compatibility with the evolving traffic landscape.
Furthermore, in the previous revised DPR, the dimensions of the stations and certain facilities were significantly reduced to achieve the lowered budget. However, this reduction raises concerns about the system's ability to accommodate anticipated traffic growth in the future.
An additional JMRCL official emphasised that metro railway systems are designed with a long-term vision, anticipating traffic growth over the next 120 years. He pointed out that the sizes outlined in the revised DPR may not align with this policy, potentially jeopardising the system's operational efficiency over time. Consequently, the corporation is proactively preparing the DPRs from scratch, ensuring that the new designs are robust and suitable for both current and future transportation needs. This comprehensive reassessment and re-planning of the metro project underscore JMRCL's commitment to providing a sustainable and efficient public transport solution for Jaipur, ultimately aiming to enhance connectivity and support the city's urban development.
Jaipur Metro Railway Corporation Limited's decision to prepare new Detailed Project Reports for Line 2 reflects a proactive approach to addressing urban transport needs in Jaipur. By discarding previous plans that failed to meet evolving requirements, JMRCL is prioritising the alignment and capacity of the metro system to accommodate future traffic growth. This initiative not only aims to enhance the operational efficiency of the metro but also underscores the government's commitment to sustainable urban development, ultimately improving connectivity and accessibility for residents in the region.