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Bhopal Metro Launches: How a 7-Km Orange Line Transforms City Commutes

Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar officially inaugurated the Bhopal Metro's priority corridor on Saturday. The 7-kilometer Orange Line section will begin commercial operations for the public starting Sunday. This launch makes Bhopal the second city in Madhya Pradesh, after Indore, to get a metro rail system. The project is designed with modern amenities and aims to provide a fast, eco-friendly commute for residents.

Key Points: Khattar Inaugurates Bhopal Metro Orange Line with CM Yadav

  • The priority corridor connects eight key stations from Subhash Nagar to AIIMS
  • It aims to ease traffic and serve thousands of daily commuters initially
  • The full Phase-1 project includes two corridors spanning 28-31 km at over Rs 10,000 crore
  • Features include AI surveillance, wheelchair access, and regenerative braking for sustainability
2 min read

Union Minister Khattar gives green signal to 7-km Bhopal Metro Orange line

Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar inaugurates the 7-km Bhopal Metro priority corridor. Services start Sunday, connecting key hubs and easing traffic.

"This launch... propels Bhopal toward a smarter, greener future, enhancing quality of life. - Press Statement"

Bhopal, Dec 20

Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, on Saturday, inaugurated the seven kilometre orange line of the Bhopal Metro, government officials said.

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has already inaugurated the Indore Metro railway project.

Saturday marked this historic milestone with the formal inauguration of the Bhopal Metro, also known as Bhoj Metro.

The ceremony took place at the Kushabhau Thakre International Convention Centre (Minto Hall), attended by Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav and Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar.

Commercial operations for the people begin on Sunday, transforming Bhopal into Madhya Pradesh's second metro city after Indore.

The priority corridor on the Orange Line, spanning nearly 6.22 km (elevated), connects key areas and includes eight stations: Subhash Nagar, Kendriya Vidyalaya, Board Office Chauraha (Maharana Pratap Nagar), Maharana Pratap Nagar, Rani Kamalapati (Habibganj) Station, Divisional Railway Manager's Office, Alkapuri, and AIIMS.

This section links major commercial hubs, the primary railway station, and the premier hospital, aiming to ease traffic congestion and initially serve thousands of daily commuters.

"The full Phase-1 project encompasses two corridors totaling around 28-31 km: the Orange Line (AIIMS to Karond, 16 km) and Blue Line (14 km), with an estimated cost of more than Rs 10,000 crore. The priority section alone cost Rs 2,225 crore," a press statement said.

Designed with passenger convenience, safety, and sustainability in mind, the Metro features high-speed lifts and escalators, wheelchair access, Braille signage for the differently-abled, AI-based CCTV surveillance, platform screen doors, and advanced signaling systems.

Environmentally friendly elements include regenerative braking and solar power integration.

Inside the air-conditioned metro coaches, riders will enjoy mobile charging points and modern passenger information systems for a comfortable, world-class experience.

From Sunday, Metro trains will operate from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., with 17 daily trips and fares starting at Rs 20 (for one to two stations), Rs 30 (three to five stations), and Rs 40 (six to eight stations) -- with no introductory free rides or discounts to passengers, the statement said.

This launch not only provides fast, safe, and eco-friendly transport but also propels Bhopal toward a smarter, greener future, enhancing quality of life and establishing the city as a modern, accessible capital.

After years of anticipation and delays, Bhopal's residents can finally embrace this new era of urban mobility.

sktr/pd/khz

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh Q
Good step for infrastructure, but Rs 20 for just 1-2 stations seems a bit steep for the common man. Hope they introduce some monthly passes or concessions for students and senior citizens soon.
A
Aman W
As someone who travels from Maharana Pratap Nagar to the railway station often, this will save me so much time and fuel. The traffic near Board Office Chauraha is a nightmare. Kudos to the authorities for getting this done.
S
Sarah B
Impressed by the focus on accessibility - Braille signage and wheelchair access are so important. Also, regenerative braking and solar power? More Indian cities need to adopt such sustainable practices.
V
Vikram M
Phase-1 costing over ₹10,000 crore for 28-31 km... while the metro is needed, we must also ensure transparency in such massive projects. Hope the full network is completed without the usual delays and cost overruns.
N
Nisha Z
Bhopal becoming MP's second metro city is a proud moment! The timing 9 AM to 7 PM is a good start, but they should consider extending it later for people attending events or working night shifts. Bahut accha kaam hai!

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