DMRC tables foot over bridge proposal for Prashant Vihar station

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has prepared a feasibility proposal for constructing a foot over bridge (FOB) across the Outer Ring Road to improve pedestrian access to the Pitampura–Prashant Vihar Metro station, following intervention by Speaker Vijender Gupta in the matter.

The proposal, which has been submitted to the Public Works Department for approval, follows a series of complaints submitted by multiple residents’ welfare associations, including the Senior Citizens Welfare Association in Prashant Vihar, over the lack of safe and direct connectivity to the metro station from the Prashant Vihar and Rohini sides.

Taking up the issue, Gupta had written to DMRC highlighting that the station had access only from the Pitampura side, forcing commuters to make long detours. “Safe and easy access for every citizen, especially senior citizens, must be ensured,” he said, stressing the need for barrier-free connectivity. In response, DMRC said the FOB proposal was under consideration and would require design adjustments to meet safety standards, including headroom requirements under the existing PWD flyover as per norms. Construction would begin once necessary approvals were granted, it added.

The metro agency has also proposed additional pedestrian-friendly measures, including an at-grade zebra crossing near ‘Entry/Exit 1’ of the station and improved access infrastructure. A lift facility from ground to concourse level is already in place. These plans fall under a broader multi-modal integration framework submitted to the Unified Traffic and Transportation Infrastructure Planning and Engineering Centre (UTTIPEC). Gupta welcomed the move but urged authorities to expedite the process, emphasising the importance of last-mile connectivity for commuters, particularly the elderly and differently-abled.

Inks pact with agri institute to develop green corridors

Separately, the DMRC signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ICAR–Indian Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-IARI) to launch a pilot project aimed at enhancing green cover along metro corridors. The MoU was signed in the presence of ICAR-IARI Director CH Srinivasa Rao and DMRC Director (Infrastructure) Manuj Singhal. Under the agreement, ICAR-IARI will provide technical guidance on selecting plant species suited for low-light and harsh urban conditions, along with maintenance practices.