On 6 March 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the Agra Metro’s priority corridor, marking a significant milestone in the city’s transportation landscape. This corridor, comprising six stations, three elevated and three underground, promises to redefine travel to Agra’s most cherished landmarks, including the majestic Taj Mahal and the extraordinary Agra Fort, along with the serene Mankameshwar Temple and the historic Jama Masjid.
The inauguration ceremony, held via video conferencing, saw Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Governor Anandiben Patel joining in from Agra, underscoring the importance of this moment for the city and its residents.
The Agra Metro project is not merely about connecting points A to B; it represents a vision for a more accessible and sustainable future. With two corridors spanning a total of 29.4 kilometres, the metro system will link key attractions like the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort to vital transport hubs, ensuring seamless connectivity for both residents and tourists. This ambitious undertaking comes with a hefty price tag of NR 8,379.6 crore, but its potential to benefit Agra’s 26 lakh-strong population and cater to over 60 lakh tourists annually cannot be overstated.
One of the most striking features of the Agra Metro is its vibrant yellow colour, a nod to the city’s rich cultural heritage. But it’s not just about aesthetics; the metro system incorporates innovative technology to ensure efficient and reliable operations. By eschewing conventional overhead equipment in favour of a Third Rail System, disruptions caused by factors like bird activity and kite flying are minimized, while automatic climate control enhances passenger comfort.
Environmental sustainability is another cornerstone of the project. With plans to recharge 10 lakh litres of groundwater annually through strategically placed 300 recharge pits along the metro rail alignment, the Agra Metro seeks to mitigate its ecological footprint while enhancing the city’s resilience to water scarcity. Additionally, the metro stations will offer a range of amenities, from spaces for celebrations and photo shoots to dining options catering to diverse tastes, educational tours and group travel tours, Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC) deputy general manager PR Panchanan Mishra has informed.
Timings and fares for the Agra Metro
In terms of affordability and convenience, the Agra Metro aims to set a new standard. Operating from 6 am to 10 pm, with fares starting at just INR 10 for journeys up to 1 kilometre, the metro system is designed to be accessible to all. Commuters can also take advantage of the metro’s official app for hassle-free ticket bookings, ensuring a smooth and seamless travel experience.
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Other details about the Agra Metro
The project encompasses two distinct corridors, each with its charm and utility. The first corridor, spanning 13.7 kilometres from Taj East Gate to Sikandra, features a mix of elevated and underground stations, offering a glimpse into Agra’s rich history and cultural heritage. Meanwhile, the second corridor, stretching 15.7 kilometres from Agra Cantt to Kalindi Vihar, provides a convenient link to residential areas and other key destinations.
Features in Agra Metro trains
But the Agra Metro isn’t just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about embracing the future of urban mobility. With energy-saving features like regenerative braking systems and carbon dioxide-based sensors, the metro trains are not just efficient, but environmentally friendly too. Operated in automated CBTC mode for enhanced safety and reliability, they represent a leap forward in transportation technology.
As the Agra Metro embarks on its inaugural journey, it carries with it the hopes and aspirations of a city steeped in history yet poised for the future. With the Taj Mahal now just a metro ride away, Agra’s residents and visitors alike are poised to embark on a new chapter in the city’s storied legacy.
Disclaimer: The above information is a result of research and Axpert Media is not responsible for errors in the same.
