The fact that land acquisition has become a sensitive issue throughout India seems to have the State Government introduced a new tool to market its metro rail project linking Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar. The Gujarat government is boasting that “zero land acquisition project”.

“No land acquisition is necessary, since most of the metro rail network will be established on an elevated corridor built on public roads. Our efforts have helped plan the alignment of the subway so that the infrastructure is built on public land and requires a minimum purchase of private land, “said state urban development department official.

Metrolink Express, Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad (MEGA) Company Limited will present a proposal before the government appointed a high-powered committee, headed by state chief secretary A K Joti.

In order for the underground railway project economically viable, the concept of local load the underground between the cities locations have been proposed. A similar system is used in the U.S. capital, the metro rail project. Sources in the Gujarat Industrial Development Board (GIDB) argue that the underground can take advantage of 15-18 per cent of freight movement in Ahmedabad, which takes place on weekdays.

In addition, MEGA officials stressed that the height of the elevated metro rail corridor would not be as high as they are in Delhi. This has been decided to keep in mind the need to build a future multi-level flyover. In addition, MEGA, which is a vehicle for the metro project, plans a vast network of gauges.

GIDB an official added: “MEGA encourage the NSG (NSG) to facilitate private sector investment. Private sector participation will also ensure quality services. A proposal to raise funds in the bond market is also being floated. Another option is a central Mobility Fund would be perceived by the burden of road, parking fees, or even given a special tax. ”

Another important aspect of the project is about 60 percent of total funding for the Metro Phase I of the project, around Rs 2000-2500 crore will come from real estate development and sales. The concept is known as Transit Oriented Development (TOD) means that 500 to 800 meters around the area Metro rail may have specific rules to control development in place. This would encourage high density commercial, office and residential area around the subway system.

“The nitty-gritty of the TOD is being prepared by the department of urban development and would be applicable to any future transport corridor in the state. Speaking of a Metropolitan Transportation Authority is also under consideration, “added the official GIDB.