Nagpur is set to witness another remarkable accomplishment in its infrastructure landscape, as Maha Metro reveals plans to construct a road tunnel under the Zero Mile monument in Civil Lines. This project, conceptualized by Union Surface Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, follows the city's achievement of a Guinness World Record for the double-decker via duct on Wardha Road.

The project has secured growth from the Public Works Department (PWD), which has given Rs 80 crore. The funds were officially received by the Metro on Monday. Unlike traditional projects with predefined alignments, the tunnel's exact path is yet to be finalized. Rajeev Tyagi, the Director of Maha Metro's projects division, stressed that detailed studies will be conducted to determine the optimal alignment for the tunnel.

The project's history traces back to 2016 when Maha Metro and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) initially planned a 3-kilometre-long tunnel under Kamptee Road at an estimated cost of Rs 2,600 crore. A feasibility study conducted by RITES paved the way for further developments. In January 2017, RITES submitted a comprehensive feasibility report, suggesting a 2.2-kilometre tunnel route commencing near Zero Mile on Wardha Road and culminating at Kadbi Square. The projected cost was revised to Rs 680 crore.

However, the project encountered challenges. The attempt to navigate beneath Gaddigodown, replete with numerous ageing commercial and residential structures, posed substantial difficulties, leading to the project's abandonment by Maha Metro in August of the same year. Additionally, the considerable financial commitment required also influenced this decision.

Later, Maha Metro is trying to pursue an alternative plan, undertaking the construction of a double-decker flyover from LIC Square to Automotive Square. Although progress has been made, the completion of entry and exit ramps for the double-decker flyover remains pending.