Prayagraj: With Prayagraj airport now included in the proposed MetroLite network, the total length of the project has been expanded from the earlier planned 44km to nearly 60km. The extension, in line with the Union housing and urban development ministry’s guidelines, will also connect the Sangam area up to the proposed ropeway route, significantly strengthening urban connectivity, officials said.Officials said that the expansion will increase the number of metro stations from 39 to 45, while the overall project cost is estimated to exceed Rs12,000 crore. The revised plan is expected to provide better access to new and upcoming townships, linking them directly with major transit points such as railway stations, bus stands and key city locations, including the Sangam.The MetroLite system will operate on two major corridors. The first corridor, earlier planned between Bamrauli and Jhunsi city lake covering 23km, has now been extended to around 39km with the inclusion of the airport and ropeway connectivity. The second corridor will run from Shantipuram to Chhioki, covering approximately 21km.In the first phase, 26 stations will be constructed on the Bamrauli-Jhunsi city lake stretch, while 19 stations are planned between Shantipuram and Chhioki. Each station will have a stoppage time of one to two minutes to ensure smooth passenger movement.The process of laying tracks is expected to begin in Aug, with approval from the state govt likely between Apr and May. A fresh survey will soon be carried out to determine the exact locations of the newly added stations.PDA vice-chairman Rishiraj said the inclusion of the airport and extended routes will significantly improve connectivity across trans-Ganga and trans-Yamuna regions, while also easing traffic congestion in the city.The expanded MetroLite network is being seen as a major step towards modernising public transport and supporting the city’s rapid urban growth.
