E-Paper
Cash-strapped GDA looks at extension of metro line
Already facing financial crisis for the second phase of Metro extension in the city, the Ghaziabad Development Authority (GDA) has now turned its eyes towards the extension of Anand Vihar-Vaishali (2.57km) stretch. Peeyush Khandelwal reports.
Already facing financial crisis for the second phase of Metro extension in the city, the Ghaziabad Development Authority (GDA) has now turned its eyes towards the extension of Anand Vihar-Vaishali (2.57km) stretch.
The line, if extended, can prove to be financially viable for the authority. GDA vice-chairman Narendra Kumar Chaudhary said the authority felt the extension also would cater to most Trans-Hindon areas.
To extend Dilshad Garden line to Arthala (7.31km), the GDA needs around Rs 815 crore, which it will not be able to contribute solely. According to estimates, around Rs 250 crore would be saved, if the Vaishali Metro route is extended instead of the proposed Dilshad Garden stretch.
"This route can be a possibility, if we plan to extend the Metro line to Ghaziabad city and other trans-Hindon areas," Chaudhary added.
GDA officials said if the Metro line is extended from Vaishali, the route would cover 5.7km with three stations at Vasundhara, Mohan Nagar and Arthala.
For the extension of Dilshad Garden line, GDA has discussed joint-funding pattern with many agencies and the government. But nothing could materialise. They'll decide on Vaishali extension in meetings with DMRC officials in the yearend.
