Namma Yatri and BMRCL to Pilot Auto-Rickshaw Services for Metro Stations

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17/05/2024

Namma Yatri offering last mile connectivity.

BANGALORE (Metro Rail News): India’s first open network mobility app, Namma Yatri, is set to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) to address the last-mile connectivity gap to and from metro stations in Bengaluru. The pilot project aims to streamline auto-rickshaw services for metro commuters, enhancing convenience and safety.

Namma Yatri (Moving Tech Innovations Private Limited) has proposed to BMRCL to establish kiosks and commence services on a pilot basis at the Indiranagar Metro Station by the end of May. The digital solution will enable NY drivers to select destinations from metro stations based on a ‘queue’ system. If no rides are available in the queue, requests will be directed to a normal ride-hailing mode.

BMRCL explains their collaboration with Bangalore Traffic Police and Namma Yatri. The aim is to provide a safe, affordable, and reliable last-mile connectivity option for metro commuters. The pilot project’s success at the Indiranagar Metro Station will determine the potential expansion to other metro stations.

Namma Yatri’s Perspective

According to reports, prepaid auto stands at metro stations were ineffective and contributed to the last-mile connectivity gap. The digital solution by Namma Yatri allows drivers to choose their destination as part of a queue system, offering flexibility and convenience for both drivers and passengers.

In September of the previous year, the Auto Rickshaw Drivers Union, led by Rudramurthy, launched Metro Mitra, another last-mile connectivity solution. Despite being based on meter charges and an additional Rs 10 pick-up fee, the service faced operational challenges and did not succeed. Namma Yatri emphasized that their service is distinct from Metro Mitra.

Addressing Long-Standing Connectivity Issues

Last-mile connectivity has been a persistent issue for Bengaluru metro commuters. Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy, during the Winter Session in December 2023, shared that only 76,000 passengers use 134 metro feeder buses daily, a low number compared to the nearly 40 lakh daily metro passengers. Commuters often face harassment from auto-rickshaw drivers who charge exorbitant prices for short distances.

The pilot project at Indiranagar Metro Station will be closely monitored. Its success could pave the way for a city-wide implementation, offering commuters a reliable and efficient transportation solution.

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DMRC Advisor Daljit Singh Pushes Monsoon Prep for Patna Metro

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Staff Reporter

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17/05/2024

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Daljeet Singh, Advisor (Special Works), DMRC, inspecting construction sites of Patna Metro Rail Project.

PATNA (Metro Rail News): Daljit Singh, Advisor (Special Works) for the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), has stressed the commitment to minimizing public inconvenience while ensuring quality and safety in metro construction works. During his inspection of the Patna Metro Rail Project, he provided key directives to expedite the construction process while maintaining high safety standards.

Singh visited various construction sites, including ISBT Depot, Saguna More, Danapur, and Patliputra. He reviewed the ongoing civil, electrical, and track-related works and assessed the progress and safety measures in place.

WhatsApp Image 2024 05 16 at 18.40.15 0cd6d114 — Daljeet Singh, Advisor (Special Works) at DMRC, inspects construction sites for the Patna Metro Rail Project.

Monsoon Preparatory Measures

In anticipation of the monsoon season, Singh instructed DMRC officials to initiate preparatory measures at construction sites to prevent any disruptions. Specific directives included:

Completing piling and pile cap works at Patliputra Nallah/Drain area urgently.
Ensuring meticulous planning and 24/7 monitoring of drain diversions.
Repairing and maintaining drainage systems to ensure smooth water flow around construction sites.

Environmental and Safety Compliance

At the Saguna More to Danapur viaduct, Singh emphasized the importance of maintaining a clean construction site and addressing environmental concerns. He directed DMRC officials to ensure contractor compliance with these standards, particularly focusing on the functionality of drainage systems.

Untitled design 2024 05 17T104824.004 — Daljeet Singh, Advisor (Special Works) at DMRC, inspects construction sites for the Patna Metro Rail Project.

ISBT Depot Site Instructions

During his visit to the ISBT Depot site, Singh outlined the following tasks to be completed before the monsoon season:

Peripheral drainage to prevent waterlogging inside the depot.
Regular monitoring of soil filling and roadwork.

Progress Updates

Daljit Singh was briefed on the progress of key infrastructure projects within the Patna Metro Rail Project, including the Admin Building, ETU & RGM Shed, Workshop Office Building, and Inspection Bay Shed. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the pace of work to meet the project’s deadline.

Untitled design 2024 05 17T103345.210 — Daljeet Singh, Advisor (Special Works) at DMRC, inspects construction sites for the Patna Metro Rail Project.

His directives aim to streamline construction efforts and enhance the efficiency of metro project completion, especially in light of the upcoming monsoon season.

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Chennai Metro: Construction Commences on OMR IT Corridor

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Staff Reporter

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16/05/2024

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CHENNAI (Metro Rail News): Chennai’s metro expansion is underway. Construction has begun for 10 elevated metro stations along the OMR IT corridor between Taramani and Sholinganallur. This development is part of Phase 2 of the Chennai Metro Rail project, covering a 10-kilometer stretch.

Workers have begun building the pillars for these stations, which will be situated below the viaduct where the tracks will be laid. The elevated metro line is being constructed along the centre of the road at a height of 13 meters to 24 meters.

Progress of the Project

According to a CMRL official, 191 out of the 449 pillars have been built. These pillars are essential for supporting the elevated structure that will house the metro stations and tracks.

In addition to the pillars, 65 out of the 450 ‘U’ girders required for the project have been installed. These girders will support the tracks and ensure the stability of the elevated line.

Land acquisition is currently underway to facilitate station entry and exit point construction. This process is crucial for ensuring easy access to the metro stations once they are operational.

Future Plans

The stretch from Taramani Metro to Sholinganallur Metro is expected to be ready by next year. It is part of the larger 45.4-kilometer Corridor-3, which extends from Madhavaram Milk Colony to Siruseri Sipcot.

Construction on the metro stations is anticipated to begin in June, before the start of the southwest monsoon. The CMRL official also mentioned that the casting of 136 of the 450 ‘U’ girders required for the stretch has been completed.

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TBM Shivaji Breakthrough at RBS College for Agra Metro Phase 1

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Staff Reporter

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16/05/2024

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AGRA (Metro Rail News): Afcons Infrastructure—Sam India Consortium celebrated as tunnel boring machine (TBM) S-718C, known as Shivaji, achieved a breakthrough at RBS College Station for the Agra Metro Phase 1 project. This breakthrough is crucial for the 14.25 km Line-1 connecting Sikandra to Taj East Gate.

TBM Shivaji’s recent breakthrough is its third, contributing to the overall 10th breakthrough for Agra Metro Phase 1’s 7.93 km Package AGCC-02. This package connects the RBS Ramp to the Taj Mahal Ramp. The machine is a 06.63m diameter Herrenknecht earth pressure balance (EPB) TBM, renowned for its efficiency in tunnel construction.

Prior to this, TBM Shivaji successfully completed 228m twin tunnels between the Taj Mahal Station and the Taj Mahal Ramp on Fatehabad Road, achieving breakthroughs in October and December 2023.

Current Achievement

In its third drive, which concluded earlier this month, Shivaji excavated and constructed a tunnel spanning approximately 734 meters for the down-line from RBS Ramp to RBS College Station.

Contract and Project Details

The Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC) awarded the civil construction contract for the underground Package AGCC-02 to the Afcons—Sam India Consortium in March 2022. Valued at Rs. 1819.79 crore, the contract has a 48-month deadline.

Project Scope

The contracted section spans chainage 3630.000 to 11564.485 and includes the construction of twin tunnels connecting seven stations: Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Jama Masjid, SN Medical College, Agra College, Raja Ki Mandi, and RBS College.

TBM Shivaji will now be moved through RBS College’s station box and recommissioned towards Raja Ki Mandi Station. This next phase involves covering a distance of roughly 640 meters.

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Jaipur Metro: Afcon Begins Underground Expansion of Phase 1C

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15/05/2024

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Trench cutter machine in action for Jaipur metro's Pink line extension.

JAIPUR (Metro Rail News): Afcons Infrastructure has commenced underground construction work on Package UG-03 of Jaipur Metro’s new Phase 1C. This phase will extend the existing 11.98 km Pink Line (Mansaravor—Badi Chaupar) eastward by 3.41 km to Transport Nagar.

The project includes a 2.65 km underground stretch with twin tunnels passing through the old city, featuring a new station at Ramganj Chaupar. Additionally, 0.76 km will be elevated, culminating in a new station at Transport Nagar. This development marks a significant expansion of the Jaipur Metro, enhancing connectivity in the city.

Jaipur metro UG work — Image Courtesy: Yash Chaturvedi

Over the weekend, Afcons deployed a trench cutter machine near Galta Gate to initiate trenching works for constructing the diaphragm wall (D-wall) for the tunnel boring machine (TBM) launch shaft. This crucial site on NH-248 will consist of a cut-and-cover tunnel, a TBM launch shaft, and a ramp leading to the elevated Transport Nagar Station.

1715408410477 — Image Courtesy: Yash Chaturvedi

Contract and Scope

Jaipur Metro Rail Corporation (JMRC) awarded Afcons Infrastructure the Rs. 630.45 crore contract for Phase 1C in September 2023. The scope of Afcons’ work includes the construction of twin tunnels, the underground station at Ramganj Chaupar, a cut-and-cover tunnel box, and an underground ramp extending from Badi Chaupar Station (Ch: 10387.860) to the end of the ramp (Ch: 13040).

This expansion is expected to alleviate traffic congestion and provide a more efficient transit option for Jaipur’s residents and visitors. The project signifies a major development step in the city’s infrastructure, promising enhanced urban mobility and economic growth.

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Patna Metro: L&T Achieves Second Tunnel Breakthrough for Phase 1

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Staff Reporter

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15/05/2024

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Patna Metro's TBM2 breakthrough at Patna University.

PATNA (Metro Rail News): Larsen & Toubro (L&T) celebrated its second tunnel breakthrough by TBM2 at Patna University on Tuesday for the 30.91 km Patna Metro Phase 1 project’s 8 km underground Package PC-03. This package, connecting Rajendra Nagar and Patna Junction Railway Station, marks a crucial advancement in the city’s metro infrastructure.

The breakthrough milestone of TBM2 was successfully achieved under the leadership and guidance of Shri Daljit Singh, Advisor (Special Works), Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC). Director (Finance) Shri Ajit Sharma was also present on this important achievement.

Officials of Patna metro and DMRC celebrating breakthrough. — Officials celebrate TBM2’s first breakthrough.

Despite facing numerous obstacles along the tunnel alignment, including approximately 900 buildings and 100 bore wells, the project persevered, overcoming the challenges posed by the densely populated area.

Breakthrough on Line-2

The breakthrough on Patna Metro’s 14.05 km Line-2 (Patna Junction Railway Station – New ISBT) was achieved by TBM Buddha (DZ1091) – a 6.65m diameter Earth Pressure Balance (EPB) machine manufactured by China Railway Construction Heavy Industry Co. Ltd. (CRCHI).

TBM-02 successfully completed a crucial phase of Patna Metro Project as it achieved its 1st Tunnel breakthrough. Operating within Corridor-2 Line section between ISBT & Patna Junction, as part of Phase I construction, TBM2 has made a significant breakthrough. @OfficialDMRC pic.twitter.com/Hrue1UreTq
— Patna Metro Rail Project by DMRC (@DmrcPatna) May 14, 2024

TBM Buddha was assembled and lowered into its launch shaft at Moin-ul-Haq Station in April 2023 and commissioned in May 2023. It completed its first tunnelling assignment by constructing a 1480m section of the up-line tunnel towards Patna University.

Patna Metro, TBM breakthrough wide angle view. — Wide view of the Breakthrough site.

Contract and Project Details of Patna metro

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) awarded L&T the Rs. 1989 crore contract for Patna Metro Phase 1 Package PC-03 in December 2021, with a 42-month deadline.

Package PC-03 is set to link a ramp near Rajendra Nagar to Patna Junction Railway Station through twin tunnels bored by Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs). This package will feature six underground stations at Akashvani (formerly Dak Bungalow), Gandhi Maidan, PMCH, Patna University, Moin Ul Haq Stadium, and Rajendra Nagar.

Future Plans and Progress

This breakthrough marks the second of an estimated twelve planned for Package PC-03. TBM Mahavir (DZ1090), working on the parallel down-line tunnel, arrived at Patna University Station in March 2024. Part of its backup gantry can still be seen inside the tunnel.

Both TBMs will be dragged through Patna University’s station box and recommissioned towards PMCH Station for their second assignment, covering a distance of roughly 1.15 km.

Bidding Underway for Line 1

Bidding has been underway since December 2023 for the 16.86 km Line-1’s 8 km underground section, which will be constructed via packages PC-05 and PC-06. The original submission deadline of February 13 has been extended to May 31, and technical bids are scheduled to open on June 3.

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Indian Railways Awards Besco Limited ₹485 Crore Contract for 1200 BOXNS Wagons

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Staff Reporter

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14/05/2024

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NEW DELHI (Metro Rail News): The Indian Railways has awarded Besco Limited a contract to manufacture and supply 1200 BOXNS wagons. The contract, worth approximately ₹485 crore (inclusive of GST), was finalised on December 28, 2023, following a successful bid on e-tender No. 2023RS19547TC.

The BOXNS wagons, which are bogie open wagons, are vital for transporting bulk commodities such as coal, iron ore, and other minerals across India’s extensive railway network. These wagons are designed according to the WD-02BOXNHL-2011 specification and the WD-05086-S-01 Design-F (U/F) index drawing, ensuring they meet the highest standards of durability and efficiency.

Delivery Schedule and Quality Assurance

The contract outlines a phased delivery schedule for the next two years. The initial tranche of 113 wagons will commence delivery on July 1, 2024, and be completed by December 31, 2024. Subsequent tranches will follow biannually until all 1,200 wagons are delivered by December 2025.

To maintain the highest quality standards, Besco Limited will appoint a third-party quality control agency of international repute selected from the standing panel of the Quality Council of India (QCI). This agency will ensure rigorous quality checks are performed at every stage of the manufacturing process. Additionally, the Research Design and Standards Organization (RDSO) will conduct inspections and issue necessary certificates, including the ‘FIT TO RUN’ certificate, before the wagons are dispatched.

Material and Cost Specifications

The contract specifies the use of high-grade materials for critical components. Stainless steel conforming to ASTM-A312 Schedule 40S Gr. TP 304 will be used for the brake, feed, and branch pipes, ensuring longevity and reliability. The total contract value includes GST at 18%, and the firm has provided a guarantee to pass on any additional set-offs/input tax credits to the purchaser.

The wagons’ pricing is subject to variation based on the escalation/de-escalation formula provided in Annexure-A of the contract. This formula accounts for changes in the wholesale price index for castings, mild steel flat, industrial worker CPI, and the transfer price of wheelsets from the Rail Wheel Factory, Bangalore.

Payment Terms and Security Deposit

Besco Limited will receive 90% of the payment upon submission of a bill supported by the RDSO inspection certificate and proof of delivery. The remaining 10% will be paid after the receiving railway authority certifies that the wagons have been received in complete and good working condition.

To secure the contract, Besco Limited has submitted a security deposit of ₹29.10 crore through bank guarantees issued by ICICI Bank, valid until 2027.

Besco Limited is responsible for procuring critical components such as CTRBs, steel items, and wheelsets from RDSO-approved sources. The executive director (QA) of RDSO will oversee the final inspection and quality control, ensuring all wagons meet Indian Railways’ stringent requirements.

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Indian Railways Awards Rs 818 Crore Wagon Contract to SAIL-RITES Joint Venture

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Staff Reporter

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14/05/2024

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The Indian Railways has awarded a significant wagon manufacturing contract valued at Rs 817.74 crore to the joint venture of Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) and Rail India Technical and Economic Service (RITES). The joint venture, SAIL-RITES Bengal Wagon Industry Pvt. Ltd. (SRBWIPL), secured the tender for 2000 Bogie Open Wagons (BOXNHL) in the last week of April 2024.

Joint Venture Details

SAIL-RITES Bengal Wagon Industry Private Limited (SRBWIPL) is a Joint Venture Company (JVC) of SAIL and RITES, each holding an equal equity stake of 50%. SAIL, a Maharatna PSU, operates under the Ministry of Steel, while RITES, a Navratna PSU, is overseen by the Ministry of Railways.

SRBWIPL has received a Letter of Acceptance (LoA) from Indian Railways for the manufacturing and supply of 2000 BOXNHL Wagons. The total contract value is approximately Rs 817.74 crore, and the project is scheduled to be completed by June 30, 2026.

Contractor’s Responsibilities

The contractor, SRBWIPL, has a series of responsibilities to ensure the successful manufacturing and deployment of the wagons:

Inspection and Dispatch: Upon satisfactory inspection of the wagons, RDSO will issue a Dispatch Memo to the manufacturer authorizing their dispatch.
‘FIT TO RUN’ Certificate: The manufacturer will approach the nominated Train Examination Supervisor to obtain a ‘FIT TO RUN’ certificate.
Wagon Examination: The Train Examination Supervisor will examine the wagons and issue the necessary certificate for movement to the nearest station.
Station Master Coordination: The manufacturer will coordinate with the Station Master to draw the wagons from the siding.
Brake Power Check: The Station Master will offer the wagons to Train Examination Staff for a Brake Power check and issue the Brake Power Certificate (BPC).
Acceptance and System Integration: The Station Master will inform the Division Railway Manager (Mech) and other relevant parties of the wagons’ acceptance and integration into the system.
Notification to Owning Railway: The DRM (Mech) will notify the owning Railway and all concerned parties of the wagons’ acceptance based on the Dispatch Memo and BPC.

The SAIL-RITES contract marks the first wagon procurement tender awarded by Indian Railways for the financial year 2024-25. The interim budget for this fiscal year has earmarked Rs 41,086.09 crore for the acquisition of rolling stock, including engines, wagons, and coaches. This is an increase from the revised estimate of Rs 40,395.87 crore for the fiscal year 2023-24.

This substantial investment in rolling stock is expected to boost the efficiency and capacity of Indian Railways, particularly in transporting essential commodities like coal and iron ore.

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Light Tram: A Transformative Approach to Urban Transit in Kerala

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Staff Reporter

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14/05/2024

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KERALA (Metro Rail News): Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) has announced plans to implement the Light Tram in Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode. This innovative transit solution, similar to traditional metro systems but more cost-effective and sustainable, marks a major shift in Kerala’s approach to urban transportation.

KMRL Managing Director Loknath Behera announced that Urban Mass Transit Company Limited (UMTC) will conduct a feasibility study on the proposed routes in both cities. The Light Tram, which has already proven successful in cities like Brisbane, Australia, can operate at road level, elevated, or underground. This versatility helps reduce both financial and logistical challenges.

Reason for Light Tram Alternative

Reports show that given Kerala’s current financial constraints, the Light Tram presents a viable alternative to conventional metro systems, which are more expensive. Traditional metro construction averages Rs 250 crore per kilometre, whereas Light Tram implementations are far more economical, making them an attractive option for Kerala’s infrastructure needs.

Extension of Light Tram

KMRL’s Light Tram ambitions extend beyond Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode. Plans are underway to introduce this system in Kochi, targeting areas where conventional metro infrastructure is impractical.

Swiss-based HESS Green Mobility, renowned for its Light Tram services globally, has submitted a feasibility report for the MG Road-Thevara-Marine Drive loop in Kochi. Further studies are planned for Mattancherry, Fort Kochi, and the elevated bypass at Edapally-Aroor.

A KMRL official highlighted the additional benefits of the Light Tram, including seamless boarding from ground level and eliminating the need for time-consuming platform ascents. Although navigating Kochi’s complex junctions poses challenges, advanced intelligent transport signalling systems are expected to mitigate these issues.

Despite the enthusiasm, some scepticism remains. Renowned Metroman E Sreedharan voiced concerns over the practicality of Light Trams on Kerala’s narrow roads and the potentially higher operating costs.

As KMRL continues its feasibility studies and planning, the Light Tram system promises to be a transformative step towards more sustainable and cost-effective urban transportation in Kerala.

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Kanpur Metro’s Voter Awareness Journey Educates and Inspires Commuters

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13/05/2024

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Educators with banner at Gurudev Chauraha Metro to Educate First-Time Voters

KANPUR (Metro Rail News): Kanpur Metro hosted a special journey on Saturday to boost voter awareness ahead of the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections. The event, conducted in collaboration with a local private school, saw educators take the lead in motivating citizens to exercise their electoral rights.

Starting from the Gurudev Chauraha metro station, a group of enthusiastic teachers boarded the metro, turning the ride into a dynamic classroom. Their audience, primarily first-time voters and daily commuters received valuable lessons on the importance of each vote. “Our vote is our true voice in democracy,” echoed through the carriages, a powerful reminder delivered by the teachers.

As the metro rolled towards Motijheel station, the teachers used the journey to educate and inspire. They wrote motivational messages and slogans like ‘Vote is our duty, Vote is our responsibility,’ and ‘Vote for India’ on a message board specially installed at the station for this campaign. These messages served as a visual prompt for the commuters, emphasising the weight of their choices and the impact they can have on the nation’s future.

In addition to voter education, the educators took a moment to engage with another aspect of culture and learning at the Bookflix book fair organized at Motijheel station. The fair provided a refreshing break and a chance to indulge in literary exploration, further enhancing the day’s educational theme.

The initiative was widely appreciated by participants and commuters alike, who commended Kanpur Metro for its dual focus on providing a reliable public transportation service and fostering a sense of civic duty among its riders.

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