In a significant move to enhance urban mobility, the Uttar Pradesh Cabinet has approved the detailed project report (DPR) for the extension of the Noida Metro's Aqua Line corridor from Sector-142 to Delhi Metro's Botanical Garden station. However, officials stated that the Centre's approval is still pending for the Rs 22.53 billion project. The proposed metro extension aims to meet the growing demand for efficient and reliable public transportation, thereby enhancing connectivity, according to the Noida Metro Rail Corporation (NMRC). Lokesh M, Managing Director of NMRC, commented, This project will not only enhance connectivity but will also contribute to the overall development and prosperity of the region. The project details include a total cost of Rs 22.54 billion and a length of 11.56 kilometers. It will feature eight new stations: Botanical Garden, Noida Sector-44, Noida Office, Noida Sector-97, Noida Sector-105, Noida Sector-108, Noida Sector-93, and Panchsheel Balak Inter College. The project also includes multi-modal integration at various points. Commuters will be able to interchange easily between the Aqua Line and the Blue Line (Botanical Garden station) of the Delhi Metro. The proposed corridor will provide direct connectivity to the Indira Gandhi International Airport via the Magenta Line of Delhi Metro and seamless commutes to major railway stations through the Blue Line. This corridor will provide seamless connectivity to all the commuters traveling from Noida and Greater Noida towards Delhi and vice-versa, said Lokesh M. The corridor is expected to have an initial ridership of approximately 80,000. The Botanical Garden station will become a major interchange hub, accommodating three stations. Following this approval, the next crucial step involves forwarding the DPR to the central government for final approval and funding, the senior IAS officer added. (Source: PTI)