Chandigarh, Nov 9
Despite lower-than-expected ridership projections, the Union Territory Administration will proceed with a detailed project report (DPR) for the proposed Metro, Union Minister for Power and Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar announced during a media briefing. This decision followed a review meeting on urban development and power projects in Chandigarh.
Minister Khattar voiced concerns regarding the Metro’s feasibility due to low ridership figures, suggesting alternatives like a pod taxi system to improve urban mobility. “While we will develop the DPR, we are also looking at options such as a pod taxi system that may be more suited to the city’s needs,” he said. Potential Metro options include underground, elevated, or mixed systems, though their viability will be largely determined by projected ridership and cost-effectiveness.
Additionally, the “PM e-Bus Seva” cluster, proposed by Punjab, aims to introduce an electric bus network throughout the tricity, replacing old diesel buses. Chandigarh has requested 100 new electric buses, and Khattar assured full support for this eco-friendly initiative.
The minister also addressed other urban planning issues, including the removal of “Lal Dora” restrictions in urban areas, with proposed amendments to ease regulatory constraints. He also discussed initiatives for affordable housing for Chandigarh Housing Board employees and proposed a demo floating solar power plant at Sukhna Lake to raise awareness about renewable energy.
To improve waste management, Khattar highlighted efficient recycling measures, including a potential collaboration with the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) to convert waste into charcoal. Additionally, he encouraged the city’s participation in the new “Golden Category” in the Swachh Survekshan cleanliness rankings to achieve a top-five ranking nationally, improving from its current 11th place.
The city also aims to enhance its clean-energy footprint through the successful implementation of the PM SuryaGhar scheme, which has significantly benefited the tricity area.
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