Cities not showing enough interest in Metro: Centre

Cities eligible for Metro rail projects are not showing enough interest, according to Union Urban Development Ministry. The ministry claims that it wants cities to do more than just express intent to have a Metro system.

All cities with a population of more than two million are eligible to apply for Metro projects. Many cities have submitted detailed project reports (DPRs) and attached applications for the Centre's approval and funding for Metro projects. "Cities like Patna, Lucknow, Nagpur and Pune are all entitled to Metro systems but there has been lack of enthusiasm from the respective state governments. It is not enough to send a DPR, attach an application, and then claim the file is pending with the Centre. They have to come to us with state Cabinet approvals and budget details. Kochi Metro is an example of how a Metro project needs to be followed up. On their part, they pursued the sanction of Metro in the city," said an official.

According to officials, Chandigarh has recently submitted a DPR which is being examined by the ministry. Work on the DPR of Nagpur Metro is expected to be completed by mid-October.

The ministry agrees that these projects are capital intensive. "Metro projects can be made financially viable. We have circulated a plan to make Metro viable. Metro depots and stations can be used for commercial activities, to accommodate malls, cinema halls and offices,'' said Urban Development Secretary Sudhir Krishna.

Other options suggested by the ministry are using land as a resource with dedicated levies or taxes, transit oriented development — mixed-use or commercial area designed to maximise access to public transport — encashing increased property value by increasing property tax along Metro lines, extending benefit of additional floor area ratio for properties within 500 metres, and setting up of a dedicated urban transport fund.

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