Exclusive Interview with DR. Brijesh Dixit, Managing Director, Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Ltd.

 DR. Brijesh Dixit, Managing Director, Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Ltd.

An acclaimed Railway Administrator and an efficient infrastructure builder. An eminent institution builder and urban transport professional. Presently heading Nagpur/ Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. as Managing Director. Currently as MD, Nagpur/Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation, built the organisation from scratch, being employee no. 1 on 18th Feb’ 2015, the day of its incorporation. Has ensured, a very expeditious start and fast progress of this major project overcoming numerous administrative and organizational challenges. Organised quick and smooth land acquisition; achieved fast tie up with international funding agencies viz. KfW Germany and AFD France. Ensured expeditious appointments of consultants and contractors. Achieved building up and functioning of organizational structure at board level and at the level of the corporation.


Rail Analysis : Please tell us about the upcoming corridors of Nagpur Metro Rail Project.?

DR. Brijesh Dixit : Salient features of upcoming projects :

  • The upcoming Nagpur Metro Rail Project is PhaseII.  It is an extension of the existing North South & East West Corridor of Phase I.

” The Phase-II DPR has been approved by Government of Maharashtra and has been forwarded to Government of India for technical sanction and approval. “

  • The total length to be covered in Phase II is 48.3 km and includes 35 stations (33 Elevated & 2 At Grade). On the other hand, total number of stations in Phase-I is 38 and the distance to be covered is 38.215 km. The Phase-I North-South Corridor stretches from Automotive Square on Northern Side to Khapri Metro Station on Southern side. Similarly, the last Metro Station on the Western side is Lokmanya Nagar and on the eastern is Prajapati Nagar. Thus, the total length of metro rail network in Nagpur after completion of both the phases will be 86.515 km with 73 stations
  • Nagpur Metro Project Phase-I was inaugurated by Hon. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 7th March 2019 via video link from New Delhi. An event was also held at Airport South Metro Station, Nagpur. Hon Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadanvis and Hon Union Minister Shri Nitin Gadkari and other dignitaries graced the occasion. In his address, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi gave his best wishes to citizens of Nagpur. Metro project is a gift to the city, he said. The project will revolutionise transportation facility in city as it would relieve citizens from pollution and vehicular congestion on the roads, he said and added that, it will also save valuabletravelling time of the citizens. Commercial operations on the stretch of 13.5 km between Khapri Metro Station and Sitaburdi Interchange Station was launched between Khapri Metro Station and Sitabuldi Interchange Station on 8th March 2019, a day after the project was unveiled.

Rail Analysis : What is daily ridership of Nagpur Metro?

DR. Brijesh Dixit : Daily ridership varies from weekdays to weekends. Thus, the average daily ridership from the day of opening i.e. 8th March
2019 of Reach 1 stretch of N-S Corridor works out to 2,500 approximately.

Daily Passenger Trips

Horizon YearPhase 1 as per DPR prepared
by DMRC, 2013
Full Network (Ph 1 & Ph 2) as
per RITES Model
Incremental ridership on Ph 1
due to Ph 2 Extensions
2024259,892549,389 289,497
2031294,241632,894338,653
2041366,121 774,614408,493

 

  • Projected Ridership of Phase-I (2024) – 2.5 lakh, (2031) – 2.9 lakh & (2041) – 3.7 lakh
  • Projected Ridership of Phase-II (2024) – 2.9 lakh, (2031) – 3.4 lakh & (2041) – 4.1 lakh
  • Collective ridership of Phase I & II – (2024) – 5.5 lakh, (2031) – 6.3 lakh & (2041) – 7.7 lakh
  • Total Completion cost of project is worked out to Rs. 11,216 Crores. The project is conceived in such a manner that the land requirement is kept to be absolute minimum. This has been achieved through elimination of new depot for the proposed project and keeping the,project alignment along the median or side of road. Land,is mainly required for around the station buildings and entry-exit structures

Rail Analysis : Please tell us about station development project and what inspires Nagpur Metro to build stations based on themes?

DR. Brijesh Dixit : Nagpur Metro Project incorporates multiple facets as far as station development is concerned. These are as follows :

Station Development:

Architectural Concept of Stations: The station design for Nagpur Metro is unique in itself. It provides the sense of heritage and transforming it to modern architecture. Modern interior finishes with art work depicting history of Nagpur and Maharashtra are incorporated in layout and facade. Stations provide user-friendly facilities to the commuters.

” All the stations are equipped with most modern Automatic Fare Collection gates (AFC gates), Passenger Information Display System (PIDS), Analog Clocks and public-address systems for the ease of commuters “

Security, Disaster Management and Barrier Free features

1. Differently Abled Friendly Features : To enable Maha Metro to be disable friendly, the design criteria for a barrier free movement has been followed in addition to CPWD Guidelines and Space Standards for Barrier Free Built Environment for Disabled and Elderly Persons. Special lifts for persons with different abilities, old people and parents with babies have been provided to commuters, one on each platform. A special ticket counter is built for children and differently abled people. Tactile flooring is proposed to guide the visually impaired persons from street to platform level. Toilet facility for general public and unisex toilet exclusively for differently abled persons are proposed on the concourse level.

Dedicated Disabled Car parking in Parking zone with barrier free access from Parking zone to station main entry shall have at least one designated barrier free route leading to the building, linking all possible passenger destinations within the building in compliance with applicable Codes and guidelines on accessibility in Built Environment. Intermodal Transport facilities are being proposed in Stations for better last mile connectivity.

2. Security: Security plays a vital role in facilitating the public transport system to become preferred mode of choice and the increasing ridership demands it as a prerequisite for Metro System. The Security model will be planned to keep pace with rapid expansion of the metro network and changing security scenario. A self-policing design such as “Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design” (CPTED) principles will be followed to reduce dead ends, corners and dark areas while designing the station space and function. X–Ray baggage scanners, door frame metal detectors (DFMD) and Hand Held Explosive Detectors (HHED) are positioned before AFC and ticket gates in each station building to achieve the highest level of security. All Paid and Unpaid areas will be designed to be welllit with minimal blind-spots for optimum CCTV / Camera coverage and the Key structural elements will be adequately protected from vandalism.

3. Signage Design : Signage systems in stations are planned to be visually oriented information systems, consisting of Signs, Maps, Arrows, Colour coding systems, Pictograms and different Typographic elements.

” Metro Transit Signage system are planned to facilitate a seamless, fast and convenient movement of commuters to their destinations and to enable the commuters to obtain the required information and identify the facilities without any ambiguity. “

4. IGBC – Indian Green MRTS Rating and Certification Process : Metro aims to make Nagpur Project greenest one. The certification for all the 38 Metro Stations of Nagpur project with Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) rating from Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) is in process. Nagpur Metro Rail project has already bagged IGBC’s Platinum Rating for 6 Metro Stations of Khapri, New Airport, Airport South, Airport, Jai Prakash Nagar and Rahate Colony Metro Stations.

5. Bio Digester – The Defense Research & Development Establishment (DRDE) has developed Bio digester Technology for Eco-friendly disposal of human waste. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) has been signed between DRDE and Maha Metro for installation of Bio digesters at all Metro stations, depots, etc. The treated water shall be utilized for horticultural purpose for watering of plants in the median/roadside and remaining water shall be pumped up to station building top for flushing in toilets/WCs.

6. Solar panels on the Station Roof – Metro encourages use of on-site renewable energy systems to minimize environmental impacts associated with use of fossil fuels. The solar panels are planned in Station Roofs to harvest renewable energy for consumption in station.

7. Landscape Design – External landscape is planned to integrate pedestrian circulation areas with the entrances and the building itself. Activities are zoned in accordancewith type of use, services required for station and area for circulation, clearly defining pedestrian and the vehicular movement.

8. Rain Water Harvesting – Rain water is diverted from rooftop using pipes to drainage network. It is proposed to provide desilting tanks and recharge wells for the purpose. Rain water will be diverted into desilting tank to remove inorganic impurities and outflow of desilting tank will be taken into the recharge well.

9. Ambazari Walkway – Metro is developing a 730m long elevated walkway from Subhash Nagar station and along Ambazari Lake. It is designed to enable public to enjoy the serene Ambazari Lake and its prepossessing landscape. It will accommodate spaces for relaxation, seating, restaurant/eateries, shops, etc. The interiors and its illumination are designed on various contemporary themes. Light show has also been planned on the exterior facade of the walkway along with both the stations at particular timings in evening.

10. Heritage walk at Zero Mile Station Heritage walk connects all archaeological and cultural heritage sites on the stretch between Zero Mile Station to Zero Mile Stone monument. In addition to Zero Mile, the Heritage Walk Project will also cover the Gowari Memorial, Martyrs’ Memorial and British Residency.

Reach 1 Stations :

  • Khapri Metro Station : This station design is inspired from the Bandra station which is a Grade I heritage landmark and a breath-taking example of a railway station building that masterfully blends colonial idioms with vernacular roof forms. The Khapri Metro Station has the characteristic features of the Tudor style of architecture such as steeply pitched roof with a prominent cross gable detail.
  • New Airport Station : The elevation of this station mimics the elevation of the Sanchi Stupa. Many features of Buddhist Architecture have been incorporated in the outlook of the station. The entry to the station is similar to “Torana” (gateway structure in Stupa) with colonnade on either side. The glass dome in the station is identical to the Stupa dome topped with a “Chatra” (parasol structure).
  • Airport Station : The Airport station has been designed to be an urban monument. A curved facade hosting module that allow free flow of air and natural light has been considered for this station. The custom-made module is arranged in a favorable composition to achieve better interior quality.
  • Ujjwal Nagar Station : Nagpur is also called the “Tiger Capital of India” as it connects many tiger reserves in India to the world. Nagpur plays an active role in tiger conservation. The motifs of tiger using metal strips have been showcased in the facade of this station.
  • Jai Prakash Nagar Station : This station is one amongst the tallest in this stretch. The Teak tree concept was adapted for elevation considering the height of the station. A perforated layer of cladding around the structure with the silhouette of the Teak tree has been planned for Jaiprakash Nagar station.
  • Chhatrapati Square Station : The station design is induced by the Raigad Fort architecture which was capital of the Maratha empire during the regime of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
  • Ajni Station : Nagpur, also known as the “Orange City” is the inspiration of this station design. Oranges and trees are illustrated in parametric on perforated sheet to create the elevation of this station
  • Rahate Colony Station : Nagpur is approximately covered with 27.92% of forest cover. The abundance in green cover has been architecturally interpreted for the frontage of this station. By overlapping green glass with metal strips to imitate the trunk and branches of the tree an abstract overlay of forest has been presented.
  • Congress Nagar Station : In the 18th century, this city was created by leader of Gond tribes. They are a large clan of people with a typical Dravidian origin. The Gonds are accomplished artisans and performers. Gond art rendezvous with the belief that “viewing a good image begets good luck”. Horses, elephants, tigers, trees, birds, Gods, men and objects of daily life are the main subjects of Gond art.

Nagpur Metro Reach – 3 :

Architectural Concept of Stations : The station design for Nagpur Metro Reach-3 is unique. It is based on modern architecture in combination with elements that suits the climate of Nagpur. The Theme for Nagpur metro is ‘Aqua’ as the alignment runs through the bank of famous Ambazari lake which is also a picnic spot for locals. For the same reason two stations ‘Subhash nagar’ and Dharampeth College are designed highlighting the sanctity of lake. A heritage walkway connecting both the stations is also planned parallel to the embankment of lake. Maharashtra’s are planned.

 

Other Major Stations with Unique Design :

ZERO MILE STATION, NAGPUR Location : Zero Mile station Description : With a strategic central location, the Zero Mile is a pivotal station for the proposed Nagpur City Centre.

” To be developed as a centre of urban growth, the Zero Mile Station will have a shopping plaza and 18 storey tower with exquisite landscaping and sky gardens. “

The proposed plan also envisages a mixed-use development above the station and a carefully planned Heritage Walk between the station and the Zero Mile Stone monument.

SITABURDI INTERCHANGE METRO STATION:

1. Introduction : The Sitaburdi Metro Station is located at the intersection of the North-South and East-West corridor of the proposed Nagpur Metro Project. The station has an interchange type configuration, to enable passengers to change from one line to other. This interchange will provide great utility and flexibility for the system as a whole, and it will decrease the time required for travel within the city. Concept design includes planning of the metro station as well as property development in the TTMC area. TTMC area is an open area near proposed Sitaburdi Interchange station and will be developed as a commercial complex under PPP policy.

2. Station design concept : In previous centuries, the metro station was a single-function edifice where passengers arrive, and trains depart. It was a simple transport node. However, since the end of 20th and beginning of the 21st Century, new type of metro stations have emerged. The modern metro station has become a multi-functional space, integrating transport services with a multitude of other consumer services.


Rail Analysis : What are the new features in coaches of Nagpur Metro?

DR. Brijesh Dixit : The Metro train coaches have some of the unique features. Most importantly, some of the features have been adopted for the first time in India.

The features are as follows :

  • The coaches have Modern design are lightweight and are fully furnished. The coaches run on microprocessor controlled 3-phase induction motor drive having regenerative braking and are suitable for CBTC based automatic train operation (ATO) conforming to Grade of Automation-GOA2.
  • The rolling stock operates on 25kV ac single phase 50 Hz flexible OCS system for elevated and at-grade sections. The trains have 3 Car Composition (DMC TC-DMC) and 16T axle load. This is the first time in India.
  • The 3-car train (DMC-TC-DMC) has car body of Stainless steel with Modern FRP interior panels for better aesthetics the design speed of the train is 90Kmph and Operation speed is 80Kmph with Passenger capacity of 970 passengers per train.
  • 30 % of the energy consumed by train is returned back to the system due to use of regenerative braking.
  • Rolling stock with 3-phase VVVF drive and lightweight stainless-steel coaches, which has the benefits of low specific energy consumption and almost unity power factor.
  • The rolling stock has Plug type bi-parting doors equipped with obstacle detection feature, Unique Interior, Wider windows for better view, Wider gangways, Eccentric emergency evacuation door, ergonomically designed grab poles and grab rails ensuring maximum passenger standing area and better aesthetics.
  • The cars are Fully Air Conditioned with humidity control. The compressor motor(s) of HVAC are inverter controlled to optimize the energy efficiency and to minimize energy consumption.
  • Interior Saloon light has Dimming controller control unit which can combine opto-sensor and detect the environment illumination at real time and automatically adjust the illumination to realize the energy saving.
  • The Rolling stock has in-train charging points for mobile and laptops, LCD screens for passenger information and advertisements, smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, CCTV cameras, passenger emergency alarm for passenger safety and security.
  • Dedicated space is provided for accommodating a wheel chair for differently abled passengers.
  • The Rolling Stock also has Priority Seating for Ladies & Senior Citizens, Digital Route Display System above each door of the Car to provide route information.

Rail Analysis : Please tell us about Green initiatives of Maha Metro?

DR. Brijesh Dixit : Nagpur Project is planned, designed and implemented to be Greenest Metro with many innovative and unique features. Nagpur Metro Rail Project has following sustainable features, which were initiated from its inception stage itself.

Use of Solar Energy

  1. 65% of Electrical Energy requirement is to be met from Solar
  2. Phase-I : 14 MWp & Phase II:- 23 MWp
  3. In the year 2018-19, 485.45 KWp Solar PV Systems has been installed at the four stations of Khapri, New Airport, Airport South and solar power is already been generated.

The break up as under

SNMetro Station KWP
1Khapri67.925
2New Airport 112.45
3Airport South 132.275
4Airport 172.80
Total485.45

The solar PV systems are being installed under RESCO model. Under RESCO model, Maha Metro will pay Rs. 3.58/ unit against the MSEDCL rate of about Rs. 9.17/ unit, resulting in a cost savings of Rs. 5.59/ unit. This will result in reduction in the operating cost of the Metro.

New Metro Bhavan

Green Building techniques by IGBC : All stations along with Metro Bhawan are being constructed as per IGBC Certified Green Buildings Norms. IGBC has awarded Nagpur Metro Rail Project with Platinum rating for three metro stations of priority section namely South Airport, New Airport and Khapri and three metro stations of Reach-1, Airport, Jaiprakash & Rahate Colony Metro stations respectively. Platinum rating is the highest rating for metro stations awarded as per IGBC Green MRTS rating system. The major norms/guidelines of IGBC features adopted are highlighted below

Green MRTS Plaque & certificate for Airport Metro Station

1. Energy efficient systems : Adoption of LED Lighting, energy efficient lifts & escalators, Solar based Lighting in Station Concourse, Building Materials using FlyAsh. More than 15% energy saving by adoption of IGBC Energy Efficient Norms/features. Upto 30% energy saving through Regenerative Breaking System.

2. Water Conservation Measures : Ultra Efficient Water Futures at stations– Minimum 20% water saving in fresh water requirement.

3. Water Recycling : Adoption of DRDE Patented sewage treatment Plants (Bio- digestor) at all stations & Depots. Treated water from Bio-digester is used for Urinal/Toilet flushing and for Gardening purposes.

Airport South Metro Station

4. Rain water Harvesting :

  • RWH pits are designed for 100 % collection of roof top run-off;
  • RWH provision at stations roof top, viaduct and building rooftop run-off
  • Sanitary Fixtures are chosen in such a way that it delivers optimum discharge at specified pressure;
  • Duel plumbing line provided for re-using treated sewage for non-contact uses.Zero Liquid Discharge

Horticulture and Landscaping near Metro stations

  1. Metro has introduced Vertical Garden on pillars which will not only provide pleasant sight but also helps in reducing Carbon Footprint in the city. Use of state-ofthe-art materials and technology, which needs minimal maintenance and water.
  2. Developing “Eco-Park” in Mihan area with an objective to enhance greenery, boosts tourism, improves ambient air quality, recreational atmosphere for entertainment and
    boosts the quality of life of people living nearby.
  3. It is planned that, water requirement for Eco-park will be fulfilled from treated water of coach/Train washing plant

Compensatory Afforestation :

  1.  As part of green initiatives, Maha-Metro has planted more than 5000 numbers of saplings in 30 Hectares land at Ambazari area and calls it as “Little Wood” in the first phase of initiative.
  2. Launched second afforestation drive by planting more than 6000 trees at 130 acres land called Extension of Little Wood. Native tree species including Medicinal plants were planted.
  3. 38 varieties of tree species planted which restored homes to 31 breeds of birds.

Little Wood – The Urban Forest

• Reduction of Carbon Foot Prints :

  1. Metro has proposed Noise barriers at sensitive locations like Hospitals, Schools etc., for Noise control during metro operations.
  2. Rubber pads to control vibrations during operation of metro
  3. Traffic noise reduction due to reduction of vehicles from road
  4. About 65,000 Tons of Carbon Dioxide reduction in the year 2020.
  5. Use of Green Chemicals: Use of Green housekeeping materials at stations for floor washing, Urinal/toilet cleaning, Glass & steel cleaner.

• Passenger comfort

  1. Use of low emitting materials (Low Volatile Organic Carbon) VOC
  2. Station Building Design for Maximize Nature Daylight & Ventilation
  3. State of the Art Public amenities at stations
  4. Comprehensive Multi Modal Integration

Wardha Road double decker flyover


Rail Analysis : What is the future scope of the Nagpur Metro Project for the City?

DR. Brijesh Dixit : Maha-Metro envisages Non-Fare Box revenue through –

  • Collection of 1% Additional Cess on Stamp Duty ( ₹ 149.62 Cr. collected till 31st March’19)
  • Transit Oriented Development (TOD) along the Nagpur Metro Rail Corridor ( ₹ 11.42 Cr. collected till 31st March’19 for TOD Premium)
  • Property Development along the Nagpur Metro Rail Corridor –
    1. Property Development (PD) on Stand Alone Plots
    2. Property Business (PB) Spaces within the Station Box
  • Naming Rights at Metro Stations
  • Advertisements