The extension of metro services between Noida and Greater Noida West faces a significant setback due to the lack of seamless connectivity between the Noida Metro Rail Corporation’s (NMRC) Aqua Line and Delhi Metro’s Blue Line.

The current interchange point at Noida’s sector 51 and 52 metro stations requires commuters to cover a distance of 430 meters, undergo ticketing and navigate security processes, creating inconvenience.

‘Constraint of seamless connectivity’

In response to these challenges, NMRC Managing Director Lokesh M highlighted the constraint of seamless connectivity in the current detailed project report (DPR) for the Noida-Greater Noida metro extension.

“Although Foot Over Bridge connection (FoB) has been planned to connect sector-51 and sector-52 station, it is not going to resolve commuters’ problem permanently owing to the 430 metre distance between the two stations. Travelling a distance of 430 metre between the two stations will always be deterrent to encourage commuters to use this FoB connection even after provision of travellators,” he noted.

Drawing parallels with a similar issue between the Dhaula Kuan station of the Airport Express Line and the Durga Bai Deshmukh station of the Pink Line in Delhi Metro, he emphasised the need for a long-term, permanent solution.

NMRC contemplating possible changes

In response to these challenges, NMRC is contemplating a slight change in the alignment of the Aqua Line extension up to Knowledge Park-V.

This proposed adjustment aims to address the connectivity issues, providing ease of interchange for commuters from Delhi, Noida, Greater Noida, and Greater Noida West. The MD noted that this adjustment is crucial to ensure long-term positive footfall and user experience.

Taking proactive measures, NMRC has initiated actions to incorporate these changes in the DPR, with a revised version expected to undergo processing for approvals. The emphasis on providing comfort and convenience to commuters underscores the commitment to creating a well-connected and efficient metro network that serves the evolving needs of the region.

As the metro extension project progresses, the focus on resolving seamless connectivity challenges reflects the dedication to enhancing public transportation in the Noida-Greater Noida corridor.