L-G nod for plan to build skywalks, walkways at new Metro stations

According to a senior PWD official, the need for MMI was felt after a recent study conducted by a high-powered inter-ministerial committee suggested bringing in MMI to tackle issues of congestion. The committee, comprising 19 ministries, submitted its report, titled ‘Decongest Delhi’, to the Prime Minister in which the issue was discussed at length as one of the ways to reduce congestion.

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For instance, for the elevated Phase-III Metro station coming up at the Rao Tula Ram Marg and Ring Road, the agencies have suggested a diagonal pedestrian path and vendor zone so as to reduce the walking distance from the station to the bus stop on Shanti Path. In North Delhi’s Rohini Sector 18, for an elevated station under Phase III, bus stops on either sides of the corridor have been suggested for ‘universal accessibility’.

At the underground station in Janakpuri, it has been suggested that a parking lot and food plaza be built. A multi-level parking and vehicle lane have been recommended beneath the Naraina flyover for the Naraina Vihar station.

Officials said while the PWD and the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation will be responsible for MMI implementation at most of the 32 sites. The Delhi development Authority too will implement a few MMIs.

“The lack of planning beyond station buildings and the lack of last-mile connectivity have led to an environment which is neither comfortable not convenient for Metro users. A majority of its riders — almost 80 per cent — access the station by foot, buses, bicycles and cycle-rickshaws. Nearly two million use the Metro every day and, with the network expanding further, the mode of transport will soon become the city’s life-line,” a senior official said.

“It is therefore critical that a comprehensive strategy be in place for commuters. Improved accessibility to Metro stations for pedestrians and non-motorsied transport must be mandatory in all Metro designs,” the official said.