Varanasi Metro project speeds up with comprehensive DPR development

The Uttar Pradesh government had initiated plans for the establishment of a metro rail network in Varanasi, Meerut, and Agra. RITES, an infrastructure development company, was contracted to conduct a thorough traffic analysis. The government intended to collaborate with RITES to create a comprehensive proposal encompassing feasibility and financial viability aspects for the project. The estimated total cost for the development of Varanasi Metro, including taxes and other expenses, was projected to be approximately Rs 172.27 billion. This endeavour was envisioned as a joint venture, with equal partnership between the Government of India (GoI) and the Government of Uttar Pradesh (GoUP). Both the central and state governments had committed additional grants to ensure the project's financial sustainability, supplementing their equity investments. The Government of Uttar Pradesh (GoUP) entrusted the Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC) with the role of 'Coordinator' for crafting the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Varanasi Metro. The Varanasi Development Authority (VDA) was designated as the pivotal agency responsible for DPR development. RITES, an undertaking of the Government of India, was commissioned to formulate the DPR. The groundwork for the Varanasi Metro DPR commenced in May 2015, featuring a series of site visits conducted by a team comprising members from LMRC, RITES, and VDA officials. Following meticulous site visits, engineering surveys, and extensive discussions with the Commissioner of Varanasi and VDA officials, the metro lines for Varanasi city were finalised. Subsequently, the DPR was meticulously crafted, outlining the comprehensive plan for the Varanasi Metro project.