Ranchi: A major transformation in urban transportation is on the horizon in Jharkhand. Preparations to introduce metro rail services have gained momentum in the state capital Ranchi as well as in Dhanbad and Jamshedpur. The state government has given priority to surveys, the Alternatives Analysis Report (AAR), and the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the metro rail project.
According to official information, the proposed metro network in Ranchi will span 51.3 kilometers. The network will be developed along three main routes: Kachahari Golchakkar to Nayasrai (16.1 km), Pahartoli to Namkum (13.7 km), and Kanke to Tupudana (21.5 km). These corridors are planned to connect key areas of the city. It is estimated that once operations begin, more than 70,000 passengers will use the metro daily.
Following approval from the central government, the Jharkhand Urban Infrastructure Development Company Limited (JUIDCO) has issued tenders to prepare the required AAR and DPR. Based on these reports, it will be decided where the metro lines will be elevated and where they will run underground.
Meanwhile, surveys have also begun in Dhanbad and Jamshedpur to assess the feasibility of metro rail services. The responsibility for conducting these surveys has been assigned to the RITES agency, which is evaluating potential ridership and future requirements.
The state government says that the metro rail project will help reduce traffic congestion, lower pollution levels, and provide people with a fast, safe, and comfortable mode of travel. The project will be implemented in phases.
Experts believe that the introduction of metro rail will significantly change the urban landscape of Jharkhand’s major cities. The project is expected to connect the state to a modern and environmentally friendly public transport system. If everything progresses as planned, metro pillars and tracks may soon be visible in Ranchi, Dhanbad, and Jamshedpur.
