Madhya Pradesh Metropolitan Region Planning and Development Act 2025: Slow Progress in Bhopal and Indore
The Madhya Pradesh government has drafted the rules for the Metropolitan Region Planning and Development Act 2025 after implementing the Bhopal and Indore Metropolitan Region Acts. According to the new draft rules, the powers of municipal corporations, municipalities, and councils will remain unchanged.
Despite approval from the state assembly 75 days ago, the government has yet to establish the necessary rules, authorities, and committees. The Act aims to ensure comprehensive development around major cities like Bhopal and Indore. Currently, progress remains slow, with Indore slightly ahead of Bhopal.
Current Status of the Act’s Implementation
The purpose of the Madhya Pradesh Metropolitan Region Planning and Development Act 2025 is to promote integrated development in and around large urban areas. However, both Bhopal and Indore have shown limited progress. Indore Development Authority has appointed a consultant to define its area and has received the report, while Bhopal is still finalizing its consultant.
According to senior officials from the Urban Administration and Development Department, work under the Act can begin only after the rules are officially notified. Officials expect the Madhya Pradesh Metropolitan Region Planning and Development Rules to be finalized within the next few months.
About the Act and Its Goals
On May 20, the Madhya Pradesh Cabinet approved the formation of Metropolitan Planning Committees and Metropolitan Region Development Authorities under the Act. Two major metropolitan regions were identified:
- Indore–Ujjain–Dewas–Dhar Region
- Bhopal–Sehore–Raisen–Vidisha–Biaora (Rajgarh) Region
These authorities are expected to create and implement development plans according to the geographic and economic needs of each region. Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasized the urgent formation of these committees and authorities to speed up development.
Expected Impact and Future Outlook
The Act aims to treat nearby villages and towns as part of the city’s extended region, promoting balanced and inclusive growth. It will provide better facilities and help reduce migration by improving infrastructure and living conditions.
The development authorities formed under this Act will focus on identifying local needs such as water supply, transportation, and roads. Their task is not only to prepare plans but to ensure effective implementation on the ground.
Although the Act was approved in 2025, the absence of finalized rules has delayed progress. However, the government expects the rules to be ready soon, enabling faster development in Bhopal and Indore metropolitan regions.
Conclusion: The Madhya Pradesh Metropolitan Region Planning and Development Act 2025 is a key step toward sustainable urban expansion. With timely implementation, it could significantly transform the development landscape of Bhopal and Indore.