"Aesthetic Makeover in the Works for Agra Metro Stations"

In an effort to harmonize with the grandeur of the Taj Mahal, the splendor of the Agra Fort, and the beauty of other heritage structures, the Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC) has initiated a project to enhance the aesthetic appeal of Metro stations, especially those in proximity to iconic monuments like the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Jama Masjid.

Taking inspiration from the intricate handmade floral and calligraphic inlay artwork found in Uttar Pradesh's monuments and the traditional Rajasthani string puppet known as 'kathputli,' the beautification project aims to bring a touch of heritage to the modern metro infrastructure.

While the decorations on Metro stations deviate from centuries-old handmade artwork, they leverage modern resources such as glass-reinforced cement lattice and high-definition images of inlay artwork printed on acrylic blocks with a glass finish.

The UPMRC official explained, "The idea was not to compete with existing heritage but to complement it. The Metro infrastructure, in itself a marvel of modern times, incorporates certain traits of local art and culture. Our design team extensively visited monuments, including Sikandra Tomb, Taj Mahal, Red Fort, and others. They captured high-definition images, which were then printed on acrylic blocks and installed inside the stations. Additionally, lattice designs inspired by Awadh architecture, but crafted from glass-reinforced cement, have been installed to provide an aesthetic look."

The inauguration of the priority corridor of the Agra Metro is anticipated by the last week of February. The project, which commenced with the stone-laying ceremony on December 7, 2020, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, comprises two corridors with a total length of 29.4km. The first corridor spans from Taj East Gate to Sikandra (13.7km), while the second corridor stretches from Agra Cantonment to Kalindi Vihar (15.7km).

The priority stretch on the first corridor covers six kilometers from Taj East Gate to Jama Masjid, including a 3km elevated section with stations at Taj East Gate, Basai, and Fatehabad Road, and a 3km underground section with stations at Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Jama Masjid.

ET