The proposal to add 916 new coaches by Delhi Metro was sent to Delhi government six months ago and the file was returned in October. (Image: Indian Express file/Amit Mehra)

There would be no respite for commuters in Delhi Metro for the next three years as a proposal to add new coaches in the trains have hit a roadblock with Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP government in the national capital, according to a report in the Hindustan Times.

The report says that Delhi Metro had planned to add 916 new coaches to ease out the rush on its trains. The proposal had to be cleared by the transport department of the Delhi government.

However, the department returned the proposal with several queries related to costs and estimated traffic when new coached would be added to Delhi Metro fleet.

According to the report, the proposal by Delhi Metro was sent to the government six months ago and the file was returned in October.

HT reported that Delhi transport minister didn’t give any response in this regard.

DMRC officials said that the cost of the coaches has already increased in the last six months. Moreover, it would take not less than a month time to prepare a fresh proposal. This means that the order for new coaches would be placed only by next year, leaving the Delhi Metro crowded till 2019.

Travelling in Delhi Metro during peak hours has become difficult for residents due to overcrowding.

DMRC had decided to add two new coaches to all its trains, especially during the peak hours, following a request from Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, according to HT.

The 916 coaches could have cost around Rs 13,000 crore. The cost is likely to escalate because of the delay.