Advancements and Agreements in Tri-City MRTS Phase-I Project

Tri-City MRTS Phase-I Project Progress Report

The Tri-City Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS)** project, encompassing Chandigarh, Panchkula, and Mohali, is currently under development, with the esteemed responsibility of preparing the Alternatives Analysis Report (AAR) and Detailed Project Report (DPR) entrusted to M/s RITES Ltd

Overview of Traffic & System Selection Report

In December 2023, RITES Ltd. submitted the Traffic & System Selection Report, marking significant progress in the project. This comprehensive report covered various crucial aspects, including:

1. Study Progress: Highlighting the advancements made in the project’s research and analysis.

2. Study Area & Population: Providing insights into the demographic landscape of the Tri-City area.

3. Primary Surveys: Detailing the methodologies and findings of primary data collection efforts.

4. Travel Demand Model Inputs & Structure: Outlining the framework and inputs utilized for predicting travel demand.

5. Proposed MRTS Phase-I Network: Presenting the planned network layout for the initial phase of the MRTS.

6. Ridership Estimates: Offering projections for Peak Hour Peak Direction Traffic (PHPDT) and daily ridership.

7. Discussions/Decisions with MOHUA: Summarizing the outcomes of meetings with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MOHUA).

8. System Selection and Recommendations, Detailing the process of selecting the appropriate MRTS system and associated parameters.

9. Depot Locations: Identifying suitable locations for MRTS depots to facilitate operations and maintenance.

Key Developments and Agreements

During the presentation, RITES proposed modifications to the MRTS alignment near the Railway Station and introduced a connection between Zirakpur and Panchkula via a designated Metro Corridor. These modifications received principle agreement from all stakeholders, pending formal confirmation at the upcoming meeting of the Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (UMTA).

Furthermore, stakeholders unanimously agreed to adopt a two-coach Metro System instead of Metrolite for the Tri-City MRTS network, as advised by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. This decision signifies a collective commitment to optimizing the project’s efficiency and effectiveness.

Depot Land Confirmation

Addressing the crucial need for Depot land, discussions were held regarding a 21-hectare parcel near Paroul in New Chandigarh. While this land is currently delisted under the Punjab Land Preservation Act (PLP), efforts are underway to reassess its availability for the Metro Depot. In the event of unavailability, alternative parcels meeting technical requirements will be promptly identified to ensure seamless progress in the project.

Heritage Considerations and Future Steps

In response to concerns regarding the preservation of heritage aspects in Chandigarh, the Urban Planning Department of Chandigarh will furnish relevant Acts and legislation to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, reaffirming the commitment to respecting the city’s cultural heritage.

Moving forward, stakeholders remain dedicated to advancing the Tri-City MRTS Phase-I project, with a focus on addressing logistical challenges, ensuring regulatory compliance, and fostering sustainable urban development.