STN: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has sanctioned a loan of USD 190 million to support the Indore Metro project. The metro aims to improve transport, ease congestion, and lower pollution in Madhya Pradesh.
The loan will help finance the construction of an 8.62-kilometre underground stretch. This part of the network will have seven stations and connect busy areas of Indore with the airport.
Features of the Indore Metro
The metro system will be designed to ensure access for all. It will include lifts, ramps, CCTV surveillance, and emergency response systems. Special care will be taken for women, senior citizens, children, and persons with disabilities.
According to ADB, the project will cut greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 12,414 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent every year. This reduction will help improve the city’s air quality.
Social and Economic Benefits
The Indore Metro will not just provide modern transport but also bring social benefits. ADB has stated that the project will open up jobs and entrepreneurship opportunities, especially for women and disadvantaged groups.
Commercial spaces at some stations will be set aside for women-led businesses and self-help groups. This approach is expected to encourage financial independence and community participation.
Better Connectivity Through Indore Metro
The project will also include multimodal integration. This means the metro will connect with buses, feeder services, and other forms of transport. It will improve travel for students, workers, and traders by giving them easier access to schools, markets, and offices.
A separate study will be conducted to ensure smooth connections between the metro, airport, railway, and bus services.
Planning and Development Support
ADB’s support is not limited to funding. It will also back planning measures that focus on women and girls. Internship and training programs will be launched to bring more women into the transport sector.
The metro plan will be aligned with Indore’s transit-oriented development (TOD) strategy. This will help the city manage growth and build around public transport hubs.
Implementation Timeline
The Madhya Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MPMRCL) will be the main body responsible for carrying out the work. Operations on the Indore Metro are expected to start by January 2030.
FAQs on Indore Metro Project
A: The total cost is around INR 7,500 crore. The ADB loan will cover part of this, while the rest will come from central and state government funds.
A: The complete plan includes two main corridors covering more than 31 kilometres across the city.
A: Pre-construction and early work have already started. Major underground construction is expected to begin in the next two years.
A: By the time it is fully operational, it is expected to serve over 2.5 lakh passengers every day.
A: Apart from reducing carbon emissions, the project will also reduce vehicle use on roads, which means less noise and lower fuel consumption.
A: The Madhya Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MPMRCL) is handling design, construction, and future operations.