Bhopal Metro gets CMRS nod; commercial operations to begin soon; PM Modi likely to launch, see setails
Bhopal: The Bhopal Metro has cleared a major milestone with the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) granting approval for commercial operations. After three rounds of rigorous inspections, the CMRS has issued its final “OK” report, paving the way for the launch of metro services on the priority corridor between Subhash Nagar and AIIMS. The inaugural run is expected in December, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi likely to flag off the service.
While December 13 is being considered for the inauguration, officials have indicated that the date may be revised. Following the CMRS approval, the report has been forwarded to the state government, which will now seek a formal date from the Prime Minister’s Office. PM Modi, who virtually inaugurated the Indore Metro on May 31, may inaugurate the Bhopal Metro either in person or virtually.
For the initial phase of commercial operations, the Metro will use a manual ticketing system, as the contract with the Turkish ticketing company has been canceled. A new agency will be appointed later, similar to the current arrangement in Indore.
The CMRS team, led by Commissioner Nilabhra Sengupta, inspected the depot, tracks, stations, and trains during visits from November 12 to 15. Officials confirm that all operational systems meet safety standards, and pending minor station works will not affect the launch.
Once the Subhash Nagar–AIIMS priority corridor becomes operational, efforts will shift to the Orange Line extension toward Karond and the Blue Line from Bhadbhada to Ratnagiri.
Subhash Nagar-AIIMS to be the first route
In the first phase of the Bhopal Metro, a section of approximately 7 kilometers between Subhash Nagar and AIIMS is ready as a priority corridor. The Metro's first commercial run will begin on this route.
This corridor has been chosen to significantly reduce traffic congestion while connecting densely populated areas of the city. Passengers in AIIMS Road, Subhash Nagar, Roshanpura, and Habibganj areas will receive significant relief from the Metro.
Commencement in the second week of December
According to sources, the Bhopal Metro's first commercial operation is expected to begin in the second week of December. The official date will be announced jointly by CM Dr. Mohan Yadav and the Metro Rail Corporation. All stations, ticketing systems, AFC gates, CCTV networks, and security staff training have been completed.
PM Modi to inaugurate
The biggest attraction is that Prime Minister Narendra Modi may inaugurate the Bhopal Metro and may also become its first official passenger. Preparations for PM Modi's arrival in Bhopal have begun, and the protocol team is in active mode. This will be a historic moment for Bhopal, as after a long wait, the capital will receive modern metro service.