Madhya Pradesh Triumphs in India Smart Cities Awards, Set to Launch Metro Trains in Bhopal and Indore
Madhya Pradesh is reaching new heights in urban development, as evidenced by its success in the India Smart Cities Awards Contest-2022. The state’s five smart cities have received an impressive 13 awards in various categories, including the prestigious Best State Award. Indore, one of Madhya Pradesh’s smart cities, has also clinched the top position in the National Smart City Award. This remarkable achievement calls for celebration and congratulations to the people of the state.
In line with its commitment to urban development, Madhya Pradesh is gearing up to launch metro trains in the cities of Bhopal and Indore. Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan expressed his excitement during the unveiling of a model coach of the metro train at Smart Park in Shyamala Hills. He emphasized that the metro train’s reach will extend beyond Bhopal, making stops at Mandideep, Sehore via Bairagarh. The trial run for the metro train is scheduled to begin in September in both Indore and Bhopal, with operations slated to commence by April or May. This significant development solidifies Bhopal and Indore’s status as metro rail cities, providing the public with enhanced convenience and comfort during their commutes.
In the face of the challenging circumstances posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Madhya Pradesh has relentlessly pursued the metro rail project. Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan emphasized the state’s resilience and rapid progress, noting that work on the Bhopal and Indore metro cities began during the previous government’s tenure. However, due to the change in administration, the project came to a halt for fifteen months. Despite the obstacles presented by the pandemic, Madhya Pradesh’s current government has swiftly resumed work on the metro rail in both cities, underscoring its unwavering commitment to progress and development.
The metro train’s model coach has been unveiled at Smart Park, where it will be open for public observation. The three-coach metro train boasts cutting-edge technology, including artificial intelligence, making it a world-class transportation system. With a total of eight doors per coach, the train is equipped with CCTV cameras, display units, efficient air conditioning, state-of-the-art lighting, and passenger emergency communication units. These features prioritize passenger safety and comfort, ensuring a seamless travel experience. Furthermore, the design of the train adheres to HL-3 level safety standards, incorporating fire alarm systems, smoke detectors, and fire extinguishers.
The metro rail project is progressing steadily in both Bhopal and Indore. In Bhopal, the Orange and Blue lines are being constructed, with a total length of 31 kilometers and an estimated cost of Rs 7,000 crore. The Orange Line extends from Karond Square to AIIMS, spanning 17 kilometers, while the Blue Line runs for 14 kilometers between Bhadbhada Square and Ratnagiri Square. Construction on the Orange Line is progressing rapidly. In Indore, the Yellow Line is under construction, covering a total length of 31 kilometers at a cost of 7,500 crores.
Madhya Pradesh’s metro rail system incorporates world-class technology and automation, ensuring the highest standards of safety and energy conservation. The integration of artificial intelligence enhances the efficiency and reliability of the metro trains. As the project moves forward, Madhya Pradesh envisions a comprehensive transportation network that connects its cities and promotes sustainable development.
The launch of metro trains in Bhopal and Indore heralds a new era of transportation and development in Madhya Pradesh. The state’s commitment to urban progress and its commendable achievements in the India Smart Cities Awards Contest-2022 reinforce its position as a frontrunner in the field of urban development. With the metro rail project well underway, residents and visitors can look forward to enhanced connectivity, shorter travel times, and a comfortable commuting experience. Madhya Pradesh’s dedication to improving the lives of its citizens by embracing smart city initiatives sets a positive example for other states to follow.
