Indore Metro gets approval for major Underground Route Realignment after Public protests

Indore, India (Metro Rail Today): In a major policy shift aimed at addressing public concerns, the Indore Metro Rail Project has received official approval for a route realignment, with a key section now set to go underground through the city’s congested central zones. The decision follows months of protests from local residents, traders, and civic groups opposing the elevated alignment through densely populated areas.

State Urban Development and Housing Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya confirmed the move after a high-level review meeting, stating that the government has officially green-lighted the underground alignment to minimize disruption and preserve the city’s heritage and urban character.

“The proposal to modify the metro alignment has been approved. The new plan will help reduce the inconvenience caused to residents and traders while improving aesthetics and traffic management at key intersections,” said Minister Vijayvargiya.

As per the revised plan, the Indore Metro line will now run completely underground through the city’s core — extending from Khajrana Square to Bada Ganpati via Palasia Square. This marks a significant deviation from the earlier elevated plan, which had drawn sharp criticism for threatening to congest narrow streets, impact historic markets, and disrupt existing road networks.

Officials said that the decision was made after comprehensive feasibility assessments and public consultations conducted by the project authorities in coordination with the Madhya Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MPMRCL).

The revised underground alignment will include a mix of cut-and-cover and tunnel-boring methods to ensure minimal surface disturbance.

While the move underground will substantially increase the project’s total cost, the government has assured that additional funding sources will be identified. The revised plan may also be placed before the State Cabinet for final financial sanction, pending Chief Minister Mohan Yadav’s approval.

“We are committed to learning from past mistakes. The earlier planning created visual and traffic challenges at several major intersections. The underground realignment will ensure smoother traffic flow and enhance the city’s long-term urban aesthetics,” the Minister added.

The original Indore Metro master plan spans 31.32 kilometers with 28 stations, estimated at ₹7,500.80 crore. The newly approved changes are expected to add 15–20% to the overall project cost, according to early projections.

The Indore Metro Phase I Priority Corridor — a 6-kilometer elevated stretch from Gandhi Nagar Station to Super Corridor Station No. 3 — was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 31, 2025, marking the city’s entry into India’s growing network of metro-enabled urban centers.

Work is also progressing on the remaining sections, which aim to connect Vijay Nagar, Bengali Square, Palasia, and Rajwada, integrating Indore’s business and heritage hubs. Once complete, the Indore Metro will seamlessly link with Bhopal Metro, enhancing regional mobility across Madhya Pradesh.

“The decision to shift the Indore Metro alignment underground reflects a thoughtful, citizen-centric approach to urban mobility,” said Mrs. Mamta Shah, MD & CEO of Urban Infra Group. “Infrastructure development must go hand in hand with sensitivity to heritage, community spaces, and city aesthetics. This move will not only improve commuter experience but also ensure sustainable urban growth that complements Indore’s evolving skyline.”

The Indore Metro realignment sets a precedent for other Indian cities grappling with the balance between urban expansion and heritage preservation. Authorities believe the decision will pave the way for smarter, inclusive planning — ensuring that mass transit systems coexist harmoniously with the city’s socio-economic fabric.

With the revised alignment cleared, officials expect updated design and tender processes to begin by early 2026, with construction of the underground section likely commencing later next year.