Metro Project Becomes Costlier: Indore to Cost ₹11,501 Crore, Bhopal ₹10,033 Crore
Under CM Dr. Mohan Yadav’s Review: The cost of Indore and Bhopal metro projects has increased by over ₹7000 crore compared to initial estimates. The original cost was based on 2015 Standard of Rates and approved in 2018, but due to changes in structure, technology, and GST (from 12% to 18%), the revised cost will be submitted to the MPMRCL board, and then to the central government.
Funding Model
The metro construction follows a 20:20:60 funding model:
- 20% - Central Government
- 20% - State Government
- 60% - Funding Agencies (Banks/Institutions)
Both governments now need to bear an additional burden of over ₹3000 crore due to revised costs.
Progress Update
- Indore: Received ₹4197 crore, 89% funds utilized.
- Bhopal: Received ₹3471 crore, 86% funds utilized.
Work in Indore is currently ahead of Bhopal in terms of fund utilization.
Future Plans: Indore (2027–2032)
Two new routes proposed as part of the second phase.
Future Plans: Bhopal (Up to 2042)
- Bairagarh to Minal: 17.20 km
- Airport to Banjari Chowk: 16.70 km
- Kolar to Airport: 28.38 km
- Habibganj to Mandideep: 16.06 km
- Bairagarh to Fanda: 13.80 km
- Banjari Chowk to Kolar: 5.55 km
New Proposals: Indore-Ujjain and Pithampur Corridor
DMRC submitted feasibility report for a new 84-km “Lav-Kush Corridor” between Indore–Ujjain and Indore–Pithampur. DPR to follow soon.
Why Did the Cost Increase?
- Bhopal: Length increased from 27.28 km to 30.90 km, GST raised from 12% to 18% → Cost rose from ₹6914.40 crore to ₹10,033 crore.
- Indore: Entire proposed corridor made elevated, more underground stations and tunnels → Cost rose from ₹6914.40 crore to ₹11,501 crore.
Targets
- Indore: Underground corridor construction to begin by October 2025.
- Bhopal: 20% completion of elevated viaduct on Blue Line targeted for FY 2025–26.
Comprehensive Mobility Plans (CMP) and Alternative Analysis Reports (AAR) for both cities have been prepared.