Delhi’s metro expansion got a nod to its roots with Chief Minister Rekha Gupta leading the State Name Authority in approving station names that echo local pride and history. Announced on February 22, the changes affect multiple lines, blending DMRC’s technical proposals with community input.
Reviewing 21 stations from DMRC’s DPR, the panel opted to keep 12 unchanged, tweak seven for precision, and rename two entirely. Gupta highlighted the thoughtful process: ‘Stations symbolize their areas’ soul. Names must reflect cultural depth, avoid ambiguity, and incorporate resident suggestions.’
Key considerations included historical context, social relevance, and ease of navigation. Composite names were introduced where needed, linking stations to prominent nearby landmarks.
Unaltered names: Majlis Park, Bhalswa, Haiderpur Badli Mor, Deepali Chowk, Yamuna Vihar, Bhajanpura, Khajuri Khas, Sur Ghat, Jharoda Majra, Burari, Pushpanjali, Maujpur-Babarpur. These stood strong in their originality.
Refinements include Uttari Pitampura-Prashant Vihar (from Prashant Vihar), Jagatpur-Vazirabad (Jagatpur), Nanak Pyau-Derawal Nagar (Derawal Nagar), Khanpur-Vayusenabad (Khanpur), Nanaksar-Sonia Vihar (Sonia Vihar), Shri Ram Mandir Mayur Vihar (Mayur Vihar Pocket-1), and Mangolpuri Kalan-West Enclave (West Enclave).
Full renamings: Haiderpur Village replaces North Pitampura, and Madhuban Chowk (Pitampura) captures the area’s traditional chowk heritage.
This renaming exercise demonstrates the government’s commitment to people-centric development. Gupta noted that the SNA’s rigorous fact-checking and discussions ensure decisions stand the test of time. Open to future revisions based on merit, this step promises smoother rides and stronger community bonds across Delhi’s bustling metro lines.