Job done, Metro Man deboards

After giving the Capital a world-class public transport system, Delhi Metro Rail Corporation managing director Elattuvalapil Sreedharan (79) has decided to call it a day. Atul Mathur reports.

After giving the Capital a world-class public transport system, Delhi Metro Rail Corporation managing director Elattuvalapil Sreedharan (79) has decided to call it a day.

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Sreedharan's term ends on December 31. He may, however, continue to be a part of the Delhi Metro in some capacity.

The government had received a request from Sreedharan not to extend his tenure as the Metro chief, chief minister Sheila Dikshit said.

"The government has started the process to find his replacement. We will advertise for the post in a couple of days," she said.

Under Sreedharan, Delhi Metro spread to 190 km, comprising six corridors built in two phases. Work on Phase 3 is on and it'll add another 105 km.

His successful execution of the Konkan Railway, the 760 km-long line that connects regions along the rugged Konkan coast, saw him being named the DMRC managing director for a three-year term in 1997. His term was later extended five times.

And even now, Delhi is reluctant to let go of him.

"We'll explore whether we can retain his services either as the chairman or an adviser to Delhi Metro," said the CM.

The veteran railway engineer wants to return to his village in Palaghat in Kerela, said sources.