The Noida Metro Aqua Line extension has moved to the construction stage. Larsen & Toubro (L&T) said on Monday, 9 November, that it has won an order worth ₹1,000 crore to ₹2,500 crore from Noida Metro Rail Corporation (NMRC) to build 15.1 km of elevated line and 10 new stations.
The contract covers two stretches: Botanical Garden to Noida Sector 142, and Depot station to Boraki. L&T has to finish the work within 36 months.
Noida Metro Aqua Line extension: the order
The order went to L&T's Heavy Civil Infrastructure business. It covers part of the design and the construction of the elevated viaduct, the 10 elevated stations and their architectural finishing.
L&T did not give an exact contract value. Under its classification, orders between ₹1,000 crore and ₹2,500 crore are called "significant". Swarajya reported that the wider Aqua Line expansion received Union Cabinet approval in February at an estimated cost of ₹2,254 crore.
Why the Botanical Garden link matters
The Aqua Line now runs between Noida Sector 51 and Depot station in Greater Noida. Passengers changing to the Delhi Metro walk a skywalk from Sector 51 to the Blue Line's Sector 52 station.
The Botanical Garden–Sector 142 stretch will give a direct interchange with the Delhi Metro's Blue and Magenta lines at Botanical Garden. The Depot–Boraki section takes the line further into Greater Noida, towards the planned transport hub at Boraki.
The new order covers civil and station works only. Reports did not give a date for when trains will start running on the extended line after construction is complete.
Ridership is already rising
NMRC recorded its highest single-day ridership of 1.05 lakh passengers on 23 October, according to Mint. Average daily footfall has risen about 20% after the introduction of QR-code tickets, the National Common Mobility Card and a new foot overbridge.
From 1 November, NMRC planned to cut the peak-hour gap between trains from 7 minutes 30 seconds to 6 minutes 35 seconds. It is also considering a later last train from Sector 51 towards Depot at 11.25 pm, subject to operational feasibility.
What it means for you
For homebuyers, a metro line that is under construction is a firmer signal than one that is only on paper. Housing and office projects near the planned Botanical Garden–Sector 142 and Depot–Boraki stations stand to gain better links to Delhi once the line opens.
Before paying a premium on a project marketed as "near the metro", buyers should check the actual station sites on NMRC's published alignment and plan for the 36-month construction period. Viaduct work usually brings road closures and diversions along the route.
Renters and office workers in Noida's expressway sectors should see the clearest gain. The Botanical Garden interchange would let them change to the Delhi Metro without the current walk between Sector 51 and Sector 52.
Sources
- Mint: L&T bags Noida Metro Rail order for Aqua Line: 10 elevated stations; Botanical Garden, Sec 142, Depot, Boraki – details — published 9 November 2026.
- Swarajya: L&T Secures Rs 1,000-2,500 Crore Noida Metro Aqua Line Extension Contract With 36 Month Deadline — published 9 November 2026.
Frequently asked questions
Which routes are covered in the Noida Metro Aqua Line extension?
The L&T order covers two elevated stretches: Botanical Garden to Noida Sector 142, and Depot station to Boraki. Together they make up a 15.1-km viaduct with 10 elevated stations.
When will the Aqua Line extension to Botanical Garden be ready?
L&T has said the work is to be completed within 36 months of the award, announced on 9 November 2026.
Will the Aqua Line connect to Delhi Metro at Botanical Garden?
Yes. Reports say the Botanical Garden–Sector 142 link will give an interchange with Delhi Metro's Blue and Magenta lines at Botanical Garden.