NCRTC invites bids for licensing commercial space at 8 stations in Meerut
New Delhi, May 26
Taking a significant step towards further enhancing commuter amenities and expanding the commercial potential of the Delhi-Meerut Namo Bharat corridor, National Capital Region Transport Corporation invited bids for licensing commercial spaces at 8 stations between Partapur and Modipuram stations.
These stations are Partapur, Rithani, Shatabdi Nagar, Bhaisali, MES Colony, Daurali, Meerut North, and Modipuram.
As per the release, "Under this initiative, commercial spaces at 13 identified locations across these 8 stations will be allotted to selected partners for a licence period of 9 years. The spaces include both 'bare' and 'built-up' (with existing infrastructure) units, ranging from pocket spaces of 14 square metres to up to 128 square metres."
These spaces can be used for a variety of commuter-focused facilities such as food outlets, cafes, convenience stores, service kiosks, and other retail purposes. Availability of such integrated facilities within the station footprint will save time for commuters and make their journeys safer, more comfortable and convenient. These outlets will also cater to the daily needs of residents living in the vicinity of the stations.
The Namo Bharat and Meerut Metro stations in Meerut are near densely populated areas. At present, approximately one lakh commuters travel daily on the Namo Bharat and Meerut Metro services combined. As a result, these stations hold significant commercial value and offer strong business potential.
With the steadily increasing commuter footfall on the corridor, these stations provide high visibility among daily commuters, residents, and the public.
Through this initiative, NCRTC aims to develop station complexes into vibrant commercial hubs by encouraging participation from local vendors, entrepreneurs, traders, and service providers.
This will not only create new employment opportunities and boost local economic activity but also contribute towards enhancing non-fare revenue for NCRTC.
"The 82 km Delhi-Meerut Namo Bharat corridor expands between Sarai Kale Khan in Delhi to Modipuram in Meerut and comprises a total of 25 stations. Of these, 16 stations provide Namo Bharat services, while 12 stations cater to local Meerut Metro services; of these, 4 are interchange stations," the release said.
Between Meerut South and Modipuram, both Namo Bharat and Meerut Metro services are being operated on the same infrastructure, a first-of-its-kind implementation in the country.
Interested bidders may participate through the e-tendering process. Detailed information regarding the tender, eligibility criteria, terms and conditions, and prescribed timelines is available on NCRTC's official website, ncrtc.in, and on the CPP Portal, etenders.gov.in.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Finally some proper commercial planning! The Namo Bharat corridor is a game changer for Meerut. But I hope they also ensure good security and cleanliness around these shops. Sometimes commercial areas become chaotic 😬
9-year license period is good for serious entrepreneurs. My cousin has a small eatery near Partapur and footfall has increased so much since the metro started. This tender will create many jobs for local youth. Well done NCRTC 👏
One concern I have is that these tenders often get grabbed by big chains rather than small local shopkeepers. The spaces are small (14-128 sqm) so please ensure local vendors get a fair chance. Also, who will monitor the pricing? Don't want overpriced chai at 50 rupees just because it's inside a metro station. Otherwise good development for Meerut.
As someone who uses Namo Bharat daily to commute to Delhi, this is excellent news! Having food outlets and convenience stores right at the station will save us so much time. The 1 lakh daily commuters number shows the demand is real. Wishing all bidders the best. Jai Hind 🇮🇳
Interesting approach to monetize station space. In the US, Starbucks and Subway are common in transit hubs. Hope India learns from our mistakes and keeps it local and affordable, not just premium brands. The tender process looks transparent with e-tendering. Good luck to the bidders.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.