Amidst opening preparations, ₹110 crore scam uncovered in Indore Metro Rail Project

A formal complaint has now been filed with the Chief Vigilance Commissioner, prompting an investigation into the matter. Bhaskar, who played a key role in exposing the irregularities, has revealed additional payments worth ₹17 crore following an in-depth review of the project’s financial records.

Uncovering the Fraud: A Detailed Investigation

Bhaskar's investigation, which lasted two months, brought to light a comprehensive e-file revealing a ₹17.47 crore additional payment for work carried out at the GN-S-6 viaduct location. This work involved the foundation, substructure, and superstructure, but was part of tasks already covered under the EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) contract. According to M. Venkatesh, the contract stipulates that extra payments can only be made for work that is not already covered in the original tender conditions. Despite this, the Metro management proceeded with approval of the bills.

The Indore Metro project, costing ₹1,400 crore, stretches 17.5 km from Gandhinagar to Shaheed Park. It includes 11 km of elevated viaduct and 16 stations, and is being developed under an EPC contract by RVNL. This contract places full responsibility for design, engineering, procurement, and construction on the contractor, meaning no additional payments should be required for work included in the original terms.

Metro's Safety Approvals and Launch Timeline

Amidst this financial scandal, Indore’s metro project is moving forward with plans for its launch. The Madhya Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MPMRCL) is finalizing the documents to submit to the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS). The launch is expected either later this month or in February, once the CMRS grants approval after reviewing safety measures.

The metro’s first phase, a 5.90 km priority corridor, will connect Gandhi Nagar station to the Super Corridor. Though officials anticipate a slow start due to the spread-out population in the area, they are optimistic about future demand as the network expands. Initially, three-coach trains will operate on this route, with the potential to add three more coaches based on passenger demand.

Announced in 2019 with a total budget of ₹7,500.80 crore, the Indore Metro aims to provide a comprehensive 31.50 km ring-shaped metro corridor around the city, enhancing connectivity and mobility. As investigations into the ₹110 crore scam continue, officials remain hopeful that the metro will soon be a symbol of progress and development for the city.