The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has  decided to invite bids for the re-development of first three stations - Dilshad Garden, Jhilmil and Mansarovar Park of Red Line - the oldest section of the Delhi metro. The DMRC will soon invite tenders for the remaining 18 stations on this corridor for renovations. There are total 21 stations on this stretch that connects from Dilshad Garden to Rithala.

Witnessing the crowd and rush on this busy stretch, the DMRC has decided to begin the redevelopment process in phases. Under, the renovation project, the DMRC will re-create the station stations by beautification, interior and exterior designs, installation of new signage’s for the entire stretch.

“It is one of the busiest corridors of Delhi Metro and renovating entire section is a difficult task. Thus, DMRC has decided to renovate stations in phases to start the renovation along with providing services for the commuters,” said an official.

“Renovation work is being taken up on Line -1 covering all the 21 stations (Rithala-Dilshad Garden) in phases. Tenders have been finalised for three stations — Dilshad Garden, Jhilmil and Mansarovar Park. Tendering for the rest of the stations is in process,” said the official.

The scope of the work primarily includes exterior facade renovation, which will comprise providing it colour theme, aluminium louvers and structural glazing. Among other works, granite flooring will replace the existing terrazzo flooring at concourse and ground floor levels of these stations.

“DMRC carries out renovation of stations from time-to-time, but this will be the first time when such a “large scale renovation” of stations is being undertaken. The work is expected to be executed within nine months after finalisation of tenders,” said the official.

The Red Line’s 8.2-km stretch between Tis Hazari and Shahdara stations was the first metro route in the National Capital inaugurated by the then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on December 24, 2002. The service on the Line was thrown open to the public the day after its inauguration.

The12.8 km stretch then expanded to 34.72 km in 17 years connecting North and East Delhi from Dilshad Garden and Rithala. The Ride Line was also recently in March extended till Ghaziabad’s New Bus Adda.