The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has been tasked with preparing the detailed project report (DPR) for two new metro rail corridors in Madhya Pradesh, connecting Indore to Ujjain and Pithampur. The total estimated distance for these corridors is 84 kilometres.
DMRC will provide technical advice for the development of the Indore-Ujjain and Indore-Pithampur metro corridors. The first phase of this project will focus on connecting key locations, specifically from Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain and Nanakheda Bus Stand to Lavkush Chauraha in Indore.
The Madhya Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MPMRCL) has issued an official letter confirming DMRC's involvement in preparing the DPR for these routes. This initiative follows a state government announcement regarding the construction of a metro rail track between Indore and Ujjain ahead of the 2028 Simhastha, a significant Hindu congregation held every 12 years in Ujjain.
Metro line in Indore
Construction on the Indore metro began in August 2019 after the DPR with 33.53 km of routes and 29 stations received approval by the state government. Trial run for the first phase was successfully completed in October 2023. The line is expected to begin operations in August 2024.
The entire metro line will have 11 corridors which will cover 124 kilometres. Each train will have six coaches. Work is underway for a 31 km-long metro line section in Indore, and now DMRC will begin preparing a DPR for two new corridors.
Indore metro to utilise green energy
The Madhya Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Limited has also received a certification from the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) for incorporating sustainable green practices into the development and construction of the metro infrastructure, according to local media reports. The Indore metro stations will utilise green energy, including solar power, to operate electronic units. Solar systems will be installed on the rooftops of metro stations, contributing to Indore’s carbon credits and energy conservation efforts.
As the Indore metro project nears completion, consultants will be hired for planning and implementing the solar power systems on the rooftops of the metro stations. However, no tender has been opened for this phase yet.