Chandigarh Metro’s Underground Network to Extend Southward.

The scope of Chandigarh’s Metro project is set to expand with a new underground network extending into southern parts of the city. This development follows recommendations from the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), which have been communicated to various project stakeholders.

Previously, the MoHUA had approved underground Metro lines only for the northern sectors and core heritage areas (sectors 1 to 30) to preserve the city’s heritage. The rest of the routes were designated as elevated tracks.

The ministry’s recent recommendations include extending the underground network to cover a 6.5-km stretch from Punjab University to Sector 26 and a 10-km section from Sukhna Lake to Sector 43/44. These changes aim to better integrate the Metro system with Chandigarh's heritage zones and enhance connectivity.

Additionally, MoHUA has emphasized the need for feeder bus services and cycle tracks as part of the Metro project’s multimodal integration plan. The updated design reflects the importance of these provisions for a seamless commuter experience.

The mass rapid transit system (MRTS) section of MoHUA released minutes from a recent meeting in New Delhi, which finalized the plans for both underground and elevated sections of the Metro. The ministry has instructed that the 10-km stretch along Jan Marg, from Sukhna Lake to Sector 43/44, will also include parts of southern sectors, enhancing connectivity with the Sector 43 Inter State Bus Terminus (ISBT).

“The integration of effective bus and cycle track systems is crucial for providing a comprehensive feeder network,” an official noted. “The ministry has given significant focus to this aspect to ensure the project's success.”

Representatives from RITES, which is assisting with the project planning, attended the meeting alongside Chandigarh administration officials. The updated plans are expected to better serve the city's growing transit needs while preserving its heritage.

ET