Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has announced plans to construct residential building above select metro stations as part of a strategy to optimise station airspace and support transit oriented development. The corporation said the initiative aims to make efficient use of existing infrastructure and provide accommodation close to transit hubs. The projects will be designed to integrate with station operations while maintaining passenger access and safety. Early-stage feasibility studies have been completed for a pilot set of locations.

Design work and engineering assessments will follow and will be coordinated with municipal authorities and urban planners, the corporation added. The planning process will address structural loads, fire safety, vertical circulation and utilities to ensure the buildings do not affect station performance. Contractors will be required to meet specified technical standards and obtain clearances from relevant agencies before construction begins. The corporation indicated timelines will be determined after final approvals are secured.

Officials said the development will create additional rental revenue streams and help reduce the need for fresh land acquisition for staff housing and allied facilities. The scheme is intended to offer convenient accommodation for employees and includes units for commercial use to support station level activity. Revenue generated from airspace development will be reinvested in metro operations and capacity enhancements, the corporation added. The move is aligned with broader urban planning goals to encourage compact growth.

Implementation will proceed in a phased manner with a pilot project to validate design and operational protocols before wider rollout, the corporation stated. All works will comply with statutory norms and third party inspections will form part of quality assurance. Community engagement and coordination with local stakeholders will be undertaken to address concerns related to construction impact and access. The corporation said it will publish further details following completion of detailed project reports and approvals.