Vishakapatnam, November 07: While Hyderabad Metro Rail project doesn’t seem to go on rails in the near future, the port city could have a metro network of its own in the coming three years if everything goes as per plan.
A Switzerland-based international company, Smart Network, has come forward to build the rail system in three phases in Vizag to offer better transport facilities and ensure hassle-free commuting for passengers. Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) commissioner B Ramanjaneyulu told TOI that the Swiss firm has evinced keen interest to put in place the rail network.
“We have asked them to submit the detailed project report (DPR). Once they come with that, we will call for tenders. We would also seek permission of the state and central governments before going ahead with the project,” he said. A technical committee from Switzerland would visit the city soon to carry out feasibility studies and structural surveys.
The GVMC chief said that Vizag desperately needs a rail network that would ease traffic congestion. “Notwithstanding the population boom, vehicles are increasing every year,” he pointed out.
Sources said the authorities are looking at investments of Rs 10,000 crore in each phase for the new metro rail. Smart CEO D Sridhar, who visited the city on Saturday, expressed his desire to set up the rail network. “We requested the authorities to examine the possibilities of constructing metro or mono or light rail systems in the city. We have vast experience in constructing metro rail networks in European countries,” he said.
This project would be taken up under build, operate and transfer (BOT) mode. Before going ahead, GVMC will have to pass a resolution in the council. Sources said the Swiss company would give a power-point presentation to the municipal administration minister and senior officials soon.
“GVMC would not spend a single rupee as Smart Network would provide technology and fund the project,” an official stated.
Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS), a dedicated bus line system, with funding of JNNURM is already being planned for the city. Out of the eight corridors proposed for BRTS, work on two corridors is under way. “If metro rail comes to the city, the transport system would be trouble-free for the commuters,” a resident of MVP Colony said.
Sources said the first phase would be within the core area of the greater city spread over 534 sq km. Peripheral areas like Bhimili, Anakapalli and nearest places of Viziangaram would be covered in the second phase and Tuni in East Godavari and some areas in Srikakulam would be brought under the metro rail network in the third phase. Officials said each station will have shopping malls and business establishments for the benefit of passengers.
As per estimates, the greater city population, which is now 20 lakh, would reach one crore by 2040. “If everything goes well, the city will have the metro rail system by the end of 2015,” Ramanjaneyulu added.
—courtesy:TOI