Stores at 6 more Aqua Line stations soon

Noida: With the Aqua Line clocking nearly 55,000 daily riders, the Noida Metro Rail Corporation (NMRC) has invited bids to set up, operate, and maintain commercial stores at six metro stations — sector 51, 76, 81, 83, Depot, Alpha-I—and GNIDA office. The stores will come up under staircases and at ground and concourse levels, offering businesses an opportunity to tap into the steady commuter rush. The last date for bid submission is May 15.

Commercial stores at metro stations are intended to meet quick needs of commuters by offering packaged foods, beverages, personal care items, mobile accessories, and other daily essentials.

According to the tender document, the scope of work involves developing stores as temporary structures adhering to NMRC's approved concept designs. "The successful bidders shall install, operate, and maintain these stores, ensuring international standards of hygiene, safety, and aesthetics," it stated. Only daily convenience products like packaged food and beverages will be allowed, while a negative list will prohibit certain items.

The contract will be awarded for an initial five-year period, extendable by three more years based on performance. Bidders will have to renovate and fit out the spaces at their own cost within 60 days of handover. The spaces will be licensed on an "as is where is" basis.

Licensees must comply with all statutory requirements, obtain necessary permits, and participate in NMRC-led promotional activities. The tender also mandates a ban on single-use plastics and requires that stores not obstruct commuter movement.

The minimum reserve price for the spaces ranges from Rs 280 to Rs 2,400 per sqm per month, depending on the station. NMRC operates the Aqua Line metro, connecting Sector 51 in Noida to the Depot station in Greater Noida.