Bengaluru: Following the recent friction over the Metro fare hike, the Central Government has dealt another major blow to the State Government. The Centre has halted the highly anticipated Sarjapur-Hebbal Metro (Red Line) project and instructed the state to re-evaluate the Detailed Project Report (DPR).
Why was the project halted?
The State Government had prepared a DPR worth ₹28,405 crore for this 37 km stretch from Hebbal to Sarjapur. However, the Central Government has refused to grant approval. Providing details on the matter, Member of Parliament P.C. Mohan stated that several objections from the Centre led to the suspension of the project.
Centre Says 'No' to Double-Decker Plan:
The State Government had planned to construct a 'Metro Rail-cum-Double-Decker Flyover' for all upcoming metro routes. However, the Centre has expressed dissatisfaction with this model for the following reasons:
Decline in Ridership: The Centre is of the opinion that constructing double-decker flyovers along the same route will significantly reduce the number of commuters using the Metro.
Financial Burden: Previously, the DPR was returned citing high project costs. Now, the Centre maintains that the double-decker system is not economically viable.
Centre's Suggestion: The Central Government has advised that instead of the entire stretch, double-decker structures could be built at selected major junctions only.
Project Highlights:
Route: Sarjapur to Hebbal.
Total Stations: 28 Metro Stations.
Distance: 37 Kilometers.
Total Cost: ₹28,405 Crore.
Ongoing State vs. Centre Tussle:
The "cold war" between the State and Central governments over Metro-related issues has intensified with this development. While the State Government believes that double-decker flyovers are the solution to Bengaluru's traffic woes, the Centre argues that they will hurt the Metro's revenue. For now, this massive project has returned to the re-evaluation stage, making it inevitable for the city's citizens to wait even longer for Metro connectivity on this route.