STN: The most technically challenging phase of the Bhopal Metro project is set to begin soon. Construction of the Bhopal Metro Underground Tunnel will start in April 2026, marking a major milestone for public transport in Madhya Pradesh’s capital.
The underground corridor will stretch 3.39 kilometres from Pul Patra to Sindhi Colony on the Orange Line. Two giant Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) will drill nearly 20 metres beneath the historic old city to create the tunnel. The project will cost around ₹769 crore and is expected to transform mobility in one of Bhopal’s most crowded zones.
Officials say this phase involves some of the most complex engineering work of the entire metro project.
Bhopal Metro Underground Tunnel to Transform the Old City
The Bhopal Metro Underground Tunnel will pass through some of the city’s busiest and oldest areas. The tunnel route will run beneath Bhopal Junction railway station, Nadra Bus Stand, Mangalwara, and Pul Patra.
These neighbourhoods have dense buildings, narrow streets, and several underground utilities. Such conditions make traditional construction methods impossible. As a result, engineers will rely on advanced tunnelling technology to complete the work safely.
Despite the challenges, the underground corridor will significantly reduce congestion and improve travel time across the city once operational.
Phase-1 of the Bhopal Metro Project
The underground tunnel forms part of Phase-1 of the Bhopal Metro network, which aims to build a modern rapid transit system across the city.
Key highlights of Phase-1 include:
- 27.90 km metro network
- 2 metro lines
- 28 stations
- Estimated project cost of about ₹7,500 crore
The project has already made progress. Around 20 percent of construction work is complete.
The first metro service began on 21 December 2025. It operates on a 7.4 km elevated priority corridor between Subhash Nagar and AIIMS Bhopal.
Tunnel Boring Machines Ready for the Bhopal Metro Underground Tunnel
Two advanced Earth Pressure Balance Tunnel Boring Machines will handle excavation for the Bhopal Metro Underground Tunnel.
These massive machines are manufactured by The Robbins Company, a global leader in tunnelling equipment.
Key specifications include:
- Cost: about ₹100 crore per machine
- Tunnel diameter: 5.8 metres
- Drilling depth: 20 metres underground
The TBMs are currently being assembled in Bhopal. They will be lowered into a launch shaft near Puttha Mill before drilling begins in April.
International Contractor to Build the Tunnel
The ₹769-crore tunnelling contract has been awarded to a joint venture between:
- Kalpataru Projects International Limited
- Gülermak
Turkish infrastructure company Gülermak has extensive experience in metro tunnelling across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Officials believe this expertise will help ensure smooth and safe construction.
Underground Metro Stations Along the Route
Several underground stations will be constructed along the new corridor.
These include:
- Aishbagh
- DIG Bungalow
- Sindhi Colony
- Krishi Mandi
One of the most important stations will be Pul Bogda. It will serve as an interchange between the Orange Line and the Blue Line, making it a key hub for passengers traveling across the metro network.
Zero-Vibration Technology for Safe Construction
Engineers will use advanced TBM technology to ensure safe tunnelling beneath densely populated neighbourhoods.
The machines maintain constant pressure on the surrounding soil. This prevents ground collapse and protects nearby buildings.
During the tunnelling process:
- A rotating cutter head excavates soil
- Pre-cast concrete tunnel rings are installed immediately
- Excavated material moves out through screw conveyors
This technique ensures:
✔ Minimal vibration
✔ Reduced risk to buildings
✔ Safe tunnelling beneath crowded areas
Bhopal Joins India’s Underground Metro Network
Once excavation begins, Bhopal will join the list of Indian cities with underground metro systems.
The underground corridor will play a crucial role in connecting key commercial and residential areas. It will also improve access to major transport hubs like Bhopal Junction railway station.
Authorities aim to complete full Phase-1 metro operations by 2027.
With the Bhopal Metro Underground Tunnel project moving forward, the city is entering a new era of urban transport. The underground system will bring faster travel, reduced traffic congestion, and modern infrastructure to the heart of the capital.
FAQ About the Bhopal Metro Underground Tunnel
A: The team will start tunnelling in April 2026 once they fully assemble and install the TBMs in the launch shaft.
A: The tunnel will run approximately 20 metres below ground level.
A: The tunnel will have a diameter of about 5.8 metres, allowing space for metro tracks and maintenance infrastructure.
A: Large TBMs usually excavate 8–12 metres per day depending on soil conditions. The entire underground corridor may take around 18–24 months to complete.
A: The old city area has extremely narrow roads and dense construction, making elevated metro tracks impractical.
A: Engineers will use Earth Pressure Balance TBMs, which control soil pressure and minimise vibration. This significantly reduces the risk of damage to nearby structures.
