Minister's Metro Vision: Underground Route Proposed for Indore.

The Indore Metro's proposed route is once again under review, with Madhya Pradesh cabinet minister Kailash Vijayvargiya urging officials to explore an underground alignment for a significant section. During a route inspection on Wednesday, Vijayvargiya suggested that the Metro line be diverted underground from Palasia to the airport, passing through MG Road and Bada Ganpati, to minimize disruption to the city’s existing infrastructure.

The inspection, which took place at 56 Dukan, was attended by Metro Rail Corporation officials, Indore Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargava, and other public representatives. Following the visit, Vijayvargiya chaired a review meeting at the AICTSL office, directing the Madhya Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MPMRCL) to prepare a detailed report evaluating underground route options.

“No decision will be made that is not in the city’s best interest,” the minister emphasized. “Our goal is to ensure that the Metro project is financially viable and beneficial for Indore, not a burden.”

Vijayvargiya also reiterated that commercial operations will only commence once the project proves its financial viability, based on the expected ridership. Although trial runs for the 5.9 km priority corridor between Gandhi Nagar Station and Station Number Three on the Super Corridor were completed in September 2023, its commercial launch has been delayed. Originally scheduled for the end of 2024, it is now expected to begin in March 2025.

Last month, the commissioner of Metro Rail Safety conducted inspections, and MPMRCL is now awaiting the final safety report before moving forward with operations.

The larger 17.5 km stretch, running from Gandhi Nagar Square to Hotel Radisson Square, is being considered as the initial phase of the project, depending on projected passenger traffic.

A second round of discussions with Metro officials is expected soon to finalize the route modifications and commercial operation plans.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.