In a momentous event eagerly awaited by locals and tourists alike, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new segment of the Agra Metro, also known as the ‘priority corridor.’ This significant development promises to revolutionize transportation in the historic city, providing seamless connectivity to iconic landmarks such as the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort.
A Glimpse into the Priority Corridor
The Agra Metro’s priority corridor, spanning from Taj East Gate to Mankameshwar Temple, encompasses six strategically located stations, including Taj East Gate, Shaheed Captain Shubham Gupta Metro Station, Fatehabad Road MS, Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Mankameshwar Temple. With the first three stations elevated and the remaining three underground, the corridor ensures convenient access to key tourist destinations.
Key Features and Benefits
With a fleet of five trains, each capable of accommodating 700 passengers, the Agra Metro will operate daily from 6 AM to 10 PM, offering a reliable and eco-friendly mode of transportation for residents and visitors alike. The project, with a total expenditure of NR 8,379.6 crore, aims to cater to the city’s population of 26 lakhs and serve over 60 lakh tourists annually.
Affordable Fare Structure
To make travel accessible to all, the Agra Metro offers a pocket-friendly tariff, with fares ranging from INR 10 for traveling between stations to INR 30 for journeys spanning three to six stations. This competitive pricing ensures that exploring the city’s cultural treasures remains affordable for all.
Inauguration and Commencement of Services
The inauguration ceremony, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi via video conferencing, saw the presence of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Governor Anandiben Patel in Agra. The launch symbolizes a significant milestone in the city’s development, heralding a new era of connectivity and accessibility.
Enhanced Security Measures
To ensure the safety and security of passengers, 28 CCTV cameras have been strategically installed at each station, with approximately 150 personnel from the Uttar Pradesh Special Security Force (UP SSF) deployed across all stations. These measures aim to provide commuters with peace of mind during their travels.
Celebrating Local Culture
Adding a touch of local flair, the Agra Metro stations showcase vibrant paintings highlighting the city’s rich cultural heritage. Additionally, selfie points have been integrated into the stations, allowing passengers to capture memories against the backdrop of Agra’s iconic landmarks.
Future Prospects
As the Agra Metro sets sail on its inaugural journey, it paves the way for enhanced connectivity and accessibility to the city’s renowned heritage sites. With plans for further expansion and integration with existing transportation networks, the metro promises to be a catalyst for economic growth and development in the region.
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Conclusion, The inauguration of the Agra Metro’s priority corridor marks a significant milestone in the city’s journey towards modernization and progress. With its efficient operations, affordable fares, and focus on sustainability, the metro is poised to become the lifeline of Agra, connecting residents and tourists to the heart of the city’s cultural heritage. As passengers embark on this transformative journey, they are bound to witness the seamless fusion of tradition and innovation that defines the spirit of Agra.