DMRC plans study to ease Central Vista congestion, assess traffic needs till 2060

Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) plans to undertake a comprehensive study to explore ways to ease traffic congestion in the Central Vista area while preserving its heritage character and ensuring smooth movement during ceremonial and VVIP events, with transport requirements projected up to 2060.

The study will focus on some of the busiest stretches in the national capital’s administrative district, including C-Hexagon, Man Singh Marg, Rafi Ahmad Kidwai Marg and Teen Murti Marg, according to the corporation.

It will examine infrastructure solutions, such as tunnels and underpasses, to reduce traffic bottlenecks without affecting the architectural, visual and ecological significance of the Central Vista precinct, it said.

The DMRC has invited bids for a consultancy assignment to conduct a detailed feasibility study. The selected consultant will be required to assess existing traffic conditions, forecast future demand and prepare proposals for improving mobility in the area.

The contract carries an earnest money deposit of Rs 4.14 lakh and the consultant will be required to complete the study within six months, it said.

The proposed study will include traffic surveys and analysis, future traffic forecasting, micro-simulation modelling, alignment planning, structural feasibility assessments and broad cost estimates for potential interventions, the document stated.

It will also examine environmental considerations and evaluate the viability of different options for reducing congestion in the area.

According to the document, the goal is to identify solutions that are technically feasible, economically viable, and environmentally sustainable.

The study seeks to address at-grade vehicular congestion and develop coordinated infrastructure proposals capable of accommodating future traffic growth while maintaining acceptable service levels on key roads surrounding the Central Vista, it said.

According to the DMRC, the consultant will also assess how the proposed interventions can be integrated with existing and planned transport infrastructure, including current and future Delhi Metro corridors.

The study further envisages infrastructure that can support ceremonial and VVIP movement requirements while minimising disruption to the heritage landscape and urban design of the Central Vista area, it said.

The Central Vista precinct houses several key government institutions and national landmarks, making traffic management a major challenge during peak hours and on occasions involving official events and public gatherings.

The proposed interventions are likely to complement transport infrastructure planned for the Central Vista region, including metro connectivity projects aimed at improving access to government office complexes and public spaces in the area.

The proposed Central Vista Metro corridor is likely to provide connectivity to the Kartavya Bhawans and other government establishments in the area, offering easier access for office-goers and visitors.

The project is estimated to benefit around 60,000 employees and nearly two lakh visitors daily, while encouraging greater use of public transport and reducing dependence on fossil-fuel-based travel.

The Central Vista corridor forms part of Delhi Metro’s Phase-V(A) expansion plan, which includes three corridors — RK Ashram Marg to Indraprastha (9.913 km), Aerocity to IGI Airport Terminal-1 (2.263 km) and Tughlakabad to Kalindi Kunj (3.9 km) — covering a total length of 16.076 km. The Phase-V(A) project is estimated to cost Rs 12,014.91 crore.