Survey Begins for Delhi Metro’s Aqua Line Extension in Noida, Approval Expected Soon
The Noida Metro Rail Corporation (NMRC) has commenced a vital topography survey for the proposed extension of the Aqua Line in Noida, which will span 11.6 kilometres, running along the Noida Expressway. This crucial survey will assess the elevation of various structures, including buildings, markets, and roads, along the proposed alignment from Botanical Garden to Sector 142. The extension aims to connect the existing Aqua Line with Delhi Metro’s Blue and Magenta lines, further enhancing connectivity in the region.
Once completed, this extension will be a game-changer, not only for commuters in Noida and Greater Noida but also for those travelling to Delhi and the newly developing Noida International Airport at Jewar. The Noida International Airport, located around 40 kilometres from the city, is expected to open its doors soon, with flights slated to commence in April. The Aqua Line extension will offer a direct metro link to the airport, reducing travel time and increasing convenience for passengers.
The project report for the metro extension, prepared by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), is currently awaiting approval from the central government. Sources suggest that the project is expected to receive clearance in the near future, with approval anticipated soon, in line with the airport’s operational timeline. The state cabinet approved the project in June 2024, with an estimated cost of ₹2,254.35 crore, which will be funded by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) and the Noida Authority. Lokesh M, CEO of Noida, expressed the importance of expediting the project, recognising that the Aqua Line extension will significantly ease commuting between Greater Noida and Delhi. “This extension will drastically reduce travel time, offering direct connectivity to the Noida airport and making travel more convenient for commuters,” said Lokesh. The extension will also seamlessly connect with the Blue and Magenta lines at Botanical Garden, providing passengers with easy access to Delhi’s metro network with just one train change.
At present, passengers must switch trains at Sector 51 to access the Blue Line or Magenta Line, which leads to Delhi’s IGI Airport. The new extension will feature eight stations along its elevated route, with stops near major sectors such as Sector 96, where the Noida Authority’s future office will be located, and other key areas like Sectors 44, 105, 93, and 97. Additional stations at Sectors 108 and 91 will further improve connectivity. The topography survey, which involves mapping the area’s buildings, commercial zones, and utilities, is expected to be completed in the coming weeks. This information will help the authorities finalise the metro corridor’s alignment and address any potential challenges in the construction process. The new stretch is expected to serve at least 70,000 passengers daily, providing much-needed relief for commuters.
Meanwhile, two other metro projects in Noida are also awaiting government approval. One project involves a 17.4-km corridor from Sector 51 to Knowledge Park V, with 11 stations. The other is a 2.6-km extension from Depot to Bodaki, which will include two stations. With the Aqua Line extension, the Noida Metro project promises to drastically improve connectivity in the region, offering commuters greater convenience and faster access to important locations, including the Noida International Airport. The ongoing survey and the expected project approval pave the way for Noida to become a more connected and accessible hub for both residents and visitors alike. As Noida continues to grow as a prominent urban centre, these infrastructure improvements will play a key role in shaping the future of the city’s transport landscape.
