MetroLite and MetroNeo projects to ease mobility in smaller cities

NEW DELHI: MetroLite and MetroNeo are low-cost mobility solutions that provide the same experience and ease of travel as traditional metro rail systems in terms of comfort, convenience, affordability, safety, punctuality, reliability, and environmental friendliness. The standard specifications of the “MetroLite” Light Urban Rail Transit System and the “MetroNeo” rubber-tyred electric coach, powered by an overhead traction system running on a road slab, were issued in July 2019, and November 2020, respectively. Both are suitable for smaller cities or areas of cities with lower projected ridership.

Because of their lighter civil structure, lower axle load, smaller stations, low power rated electrical equipment, low operation and maintenance costs, etc., these new transit modes have a lower capital cost than high-capacity metro rail. These systems can also serve as feeders for conventional metro rail. Urban transport is a state subject and an integral part of urban development. Therefore, respective state governments/union territories (UTs) are in charge of initiating and developing urban transportation infrastructure including rail-based mass transit modes such as Metro Rail/MetroLite/MetroNeo/Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS), among others. According to Metro Rail Policy-2017, the Government of India addresses financial assistance for such projects in cities based on the feasibility of the proposal and the availability of resources, as and when proposed by the concerned State Government/Union Territories (UTs).

The following are the details of MetroLite and MetroNeo proposals for central financial assistance received from various state governments and UTs. The information was provided by Kaushal Kishore, Minister of State for the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India in the Lok Sabha on December 2.