Nap & Go: Pod Hotel Opens At Delhi Metro

Passengers at the New Delhi metro station now have access to a new pod hotel for convenient overnight stays. Developed by DMRC as part of its non-fare revenue initiatives, the pod hotel is part of broader property developments, including retail and office spaces at various metro stations. The project's aim is to enhance the commuter experience and financial sustainability.

A new pool hotel is now available for passengers at the New Delhi metro station, providing them a convenient place to rest while waiting for their trains. Situated near New Delhi Railway station, this facility aims to cater to travellers in transit who need a place to spend the night.

Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has been working on several property development projects to generate non-fare revenue, including retail, entertainment, and office spaces across various metro stations. "At the New Delhi metro station, which serves as an interchange for the Yellow and Airport Express Lines, the vendor has developed a pod hotel for passengers looking for overnight accommodation. The pod hotel is now operational. Of the 3000 square metre area, a portion is dedicated to the hotel, with the remainder used for other commercial purposes," said a DMRC official.

In addition to the pod hotel, DMRC has recently developed various properties such as retail, food, and office spaces at Malviya Nagar Punjabi Bagh Azadpur and Faridabad Sector 20B metro stations. A banquet hall has also been established at the Noida Electronic City metro station. Future property development projects include an industrial space at Mohan Estate metro station covering 8900 square metres, a commercial space with parking at Kohat Enclave, over 6090 square metres of retail and office spaces at Azadpur spanning 21000 square metres of retail areas on the ground and first floors of Anand Vihar metro station covering around 4100 square metres.

"DMRC is introducing several new property development projects across the National Capital Region as part of its ongoing efforts." These initiatives will boost non-fare revenues but will also provide residents with new shopping, entertainment, and office space options," added the official. As per DMRC, these property development activities align with global metro systems, which, capital-intensive, rely on non-operational revenue streams such as retail, real estate, and advertising to stay financially viable without government subsidies.

"These commercial ventures enhance the appearance and atmosphere of metro stations, attracting more commuters and improving ridership, thus supporting better traffic integration," the official explained. Although DMRC's property development efforts faced challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, effective planning and stakeholder engagement have allowed them to boost non-fare revenues to approximately 20% of total revenue generation. However, challenges such as the complexity of obtaining approvals and difficulties with land use changes continue to hinder Delhi Metro Rail Corporation's ability to realise the potential of these projects fully, said the official.

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