Bridging Bhopal with a Rapid Transit Network

Bhopal, the vibrant capital of Madhya Pradesh, is gearing up for a transformation under the Bhoj Metro project. This ambitious mass rapid transit system (MRTS) will soon traverse the city, offering residents a fast, efficient, and eco-friendly way to travel. Phase 1 of the project, slated for completion in 2027, will encompass two lines and 28 stations. The Priority Corridor, a crucial phase segment, is expected to be operational by March 2024, slightly beyond its initial August 2023 target.

The long-term vision, captured in a 105 km master plan, envisions six metro lines seamlessly connecting different parts of Bhopal. For Phase 1, lines 2 and 5 have been prioritised, covering 27.9 kilometres. The project’s Detailed Project Report (DPR) received necessary approvals from both the state government (December 2016) and the Central Government (October 2018). Financing for this transformative project comes from a diverse pool of sources. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has extended an official development assistance (ODA) loan, while the European Investment Bank (EIB) contributed a significant 400 million euro loan in December 2019. Construction work began in January 2019 and is now in full swing and aims for completion by 2026.

The project’s cornerstone was laid in September 2019 by then Chief Minister of the state, Mr Kamal Nath, aptly naming it the Bhoj Metro, a tribute to the legendary King Bhoja, who ruled over the Malwa region in medieval times. This initiative promises to revolutionise Bhopal’s urban mobility and boost its economic growth and sustainability. The Bhoj Metro project represents a pivotal step towards a modern and connected Bhopal. With its efficient and eco-friendly transportation system, the city is poised for a brighter future, where residents can easily commute and enjoy the benefits of a well-integrated urban infrastructure.

Need & Importance of Bhoj Metro

The Bhoj Metro project aims to provide a fast, convenient, and eco-friendly mode of transportation for the residents and visitors of Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh. The project has several historical, tourism, and cultural benefits. Some of them are:

• The Bhoj Metro will help preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of Bhopal, representing the revered legacy of great king Raja Bhoj, who ruled over the entire Malwa region in medieval times. The city was founded by King Bhoj in the 11th century, who named it after himself. The city has many monuments and landmarks that reflect its glorious past, such as the Taj-ul-Masajid, the Bara Imambara, the Rani ki Vav, and the Bhojeshwar Temple. The metro will make accessing these places easier without depending on private vehicles or public buses.
• The Bhoj Metro will also boost the tourism industry of Bhopal, which is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the state. The city attracts millions of tourists annually for its natural beauty, religious diversity, and cultural festivals. The metro will enhance the connectivity and accessibility of various tourist attractions in and around Bhopal, such as Sanchi Stupa, Ujjain Mahakaleshwar Temple, Omkareshwar, Orchha Fort, Khajuraho Temples, and Bandhavgarh National Park. The metro will also reduce the traffic congestion and pollution in the city and improve the quality of life for its residents.
• The Bhoj Metro will also contribute to Bhopal’s economic development and social welfare. The project will create employment opportunities for thousands of people during its construction phase and generate revenue for the government through taxes and fares. The project will also reduce the dependence on fossil fuels and encourage green mobility among its users. The project will also improve its users’ public health and safety by providing them with a safe, comfortable, and reliable mode of transport.

These are reasons why the Bhoj Metro is an important project for Bhopal.

Project Details & Key Information

The key specifications of the project are as follows:

• Top Speed: 80 kmph
• Average Speed: 34 kmph
• Track Gauge: Standard Gauge – 1435 mm
• Electrification: 750 V DC Third Rail
• Signalling: Communications-based Train Control (CBTC)
• Operational: 0 km
• Under Construction: 6.22 km
• Approved: 21.65 km
• Proposed: 77.13 km
• Estimated Cost: Rs. 6941.40 cr
• Estimated Daily Ridership: 2.20 lakh/day (2027)

Routes & Corridor

1. Proposed Lines

Line-1 (Green Line): Bairgarh – Awadhpuri

• Number of Stations: 24 (Twenty Four)
• Stations: Bairagarh, Bairagarh Stadium, Hemu Kalani, Hala Pura Bus Stand, Lal Ghati Square, Idgarh Hills, Collectorate, Cambridge School MG Hospital, Curfew Wali Mata Mandir, Kamala Park, Polytechnic Square, Roshanpura Square, TT Nagar Stadium, Mata Mandir, Jain Mandir, Sharda Mandir, Nutan College, Mansarovar Complex (Habibganj Station), Khushabhau Thakrey ISBT, Anna Nagar, Carmel Convent, Piplani Gurdwara Square, Mahatma Gandhi Square, Awadhpuri

Line-3 (Red Line): Bhauri Bypass (NH12 Junction) – Vasant Kunj Bus Stop

• Number of Stations: 24 (Twenty Four)
• Stations: Bhauri Bypass/NH12 Junction, Peepainer Village (Aerocity), Airport Road, Gandhinagar, Airport Tiraha, Manubhan Tekri, Lalghati Square, Idgarh Hills, Collectorate, Cambridge School MG Hospital, Curfew Wali Mata Mandir, Kamala Park, Polytechnic Square, Roshanpura Square, TT Nagar Stadium, Mata Mandir, Jain Mandir, Sharda Mandir, Nutan College, Mansarovar Complex (Habibganj Station), Habibganj Naka, 10 No. Square, Sai Board, Vasant Kunj Bus Stop

Line-4 (Yellow Line): Ashok Garden Auto Stand – Mother Teresa School

• Number of Stations: 21 (Twenty-One)
• Stations: Ashok Garden Auto Stand, Krishna Campus, Railway Station, Jumerati Road, Curfew Wali Mata Mandir, Kamala Park, Polytechnic Square, Roshanpura Square, TT Nagar Stadium, Mata Mandir, MACT Square, Panchsheel Nagar Bus Stop, Ekant Park, Sahapura Lake, Bhoj University (Chunnabhatti), IIPM Sarvadham, Mansarovar School, CI Height Nayapura Bus Stop, Sanskar Marriage Garden, Bhairagarh Chichali, Mother Teresa School

Line-6 (Brown Line): Habibganj Naka – Mandideep

• Number of Stations: 12 (Twelve)
• Stations: Habibganj Naka, RRL, BU University, Bagsewania Bus Stop, Ashima The Lake City Mall, Sri Ram Colony, C21 Mall, Scope College (Bharopur), Regional 1 / NH-12, Harigangar Nagar, Regional 2, Mandideep

1. Phase 1 Lines (Approved)

Line-2 (Orange Line): Karond Circle – AIIMS

• Length: 14.99 km
• Type: Elevated & Underground
• Status: 6.225 km is under construction between AIIMS and Subhash Nagar
• Depot: Subhash Nagar Underpass (Jinsi)
• Number of Stations: 16 (Sixteen)
• Stations: Karond Square, Krishi Upaj Mandi, DIG Bungalow, Sindhi Colony, Nandra Bus Stand, Bhopal Junction, Aish Bagh Crossing, Bogda Pul (interchange), Shubhash Nagar Underpass, Kendriya Vidyalaya, DB City Mall, Sangam Cinema, Himansarovar / Habibganj Station, Habibgang Naka, Alkapuri Bus Stand, AIIMS

Line-5 (Blue Line): Bhadbhada Square – Ratnagiri Tiraha

• Length: 12.91 km
• Type: Elevated
• Depot: Subhash Nagar Underpass (Jinsi)
• Number of Stations: 14 (Fourteen)
• Stations: Bhadbadha Square, Depot Square, Jawahar Chowk, Roshanpura Square, Minto Hall, Lily Talkies, Bogda Pul (interchange), Prabhat Square, Govindpura,  J.K.Road, Indrapuri, Piplani (BHEL Township) and Ratnagiri Tiraha

Conclusion

Bhopal, the city once graced by the reign of Raja Bhoj, is poised for a modern transformation with the Bhoj Metro project. This ambitious mass rapid transit system promises not just to ease commutes but also to revitalize the city’s ancient soul in several ways:

• Connecting History and Modernity: The metro’s lines will weave through historically significant areas, bringing ancient landmarks like the Upper and Lower Lakes within easy reach. Passengers will experience a seamless blend of Raja Bhoj’s era and contemporary marvels, creating a unique travelogue through time.
• Accessibility to Hidden Gems: The metro’s reach will extend beyond the usual tourist hotspots, unlocking lesser-known historical sites and cultural hubs. This will allow visitors to delve deeper into Bhopal’s heritage, unearthing hidden treasures illuminating the city’s past.
• Sustainable Preservation: By reducing traffic congestion and pollution, the Bhoj Metro will act as a guardian of Bhopal’s historical wonders. A cleaner city environment will enhance the visitor experience and safeguard the delicate fabric of its ancient monuments.
• Cultural Tapestry Revived: Improved connectivity will foster cultural exchange within Bhopal, connecting diverse communities and reviving traditional practices. This will strengthen the city’s unique cultural identity and create a vibrant atmosphere steeped in its rich heritage.
• A Global Platform for History: The Bhoj Metro will showcase Bhopal’s historical significance on the world stage. The increased visibility can attract investment and recognition, placing Raja Bhoj’s city on the map as a cultural treasure trove for international travellers.

In essence, the Bhoj Metro is not just a transportation system; it’s a bridge between the ancient and the modern, a promise to honour Raja Bhoj’s legacy while propelling Bhopal towards a sustainable and vibrant future. As the metro takes shape, it whispers a tale of a city poised to rediscover its historical grandeur while embracing the promise of tomorrow.

Discover the endless possibilities of our city’s Metro at InnoMetro, our flagship Expo and Conference. Be an active participant in shaping its future towards a more sustainable tomorrow. Stay informed and join us to take a step towards a brighter future.

Advertisement1