The metro project in Madhya Pradesh's capital city is entering its final stages. After the successful metro trials in Indore, the government's complete focus is now on the Bhopal metro. Before metro rail operations can commence, inspection by the CMRS (Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety) team is a crucial step, and preparations for this are underway.
According to sources, the CMRS team will inspect the Habibganj, AIIMS, and Subhash Nagar stations of the Bhopal metro between August and September. Work is being carried out day and night at the entry and exit points of these three stations in anticipation.
Expected to Operate at Full Speed by the End of 2025
This Bhopal metro line will be 31 kilometers long, with approximately 16 kilometers being developed in the first phase. The line from Habibganj to Subhash Nagar is being prioritized as this section will be the first to be ready for trials and public operation. Construction work on the three main stations of the Bhopal metro – Habibganj, AIIMS, and Subhash Nagar – is now approximately 80% complete.
Installation of escalators, ticketing machines, security cameras, and other equipment is ongoing at these stations. Testing of the signaling and automatic control systems has also begun.
Why is CMRS Inspection Necessary?
The inspection by the CMRS, or Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety, team is considered the final approval for any metro project. This team conducts a thorough examination of all technical, safety, structural, and operational standards. If Bhopal metro receives this approval in August-September, commercial operations could begin in the first half of 2025.
Lessons Learned from Indore, Now Being Applied in Bhopal
The first metro trial in Indore was successfully completed, leading to several changes in the planning and execution of the Bhopal metro project. Some technical challenges encountered in Indore have been proactively addressed in Bhopal. Metro officials believe that the experience gained in Indore will prove beneficial for Bhopal.
Public Expectations from the Metro
Local residents of Bhopal are quite enthusiastic about the metro. Vinod Chauhan, a businessman in Habibganj, says, "If the metro starts on time, people will get relief from traffic, and the city's pace will change." Naman Jain, a student studying at AIIMS, adds, "The metro will make commuting to and from our college easier and save time."
While progress is being made on the project, the onset of rain and monsoon season could impact construction work. Additionally, some local residents are dissatisfied with land acquisition and traffic diversions in certain areas. The administration says that all problems are being addressed on a priority basis.
