Bhopal Metro Phase II Construction Set To Begin: 15 Km Stretch With 14 Elevated Stations To Be Ready Before 2028 MP Elections

The launch of the Bhopal Metro Phase II is expected by the end of January or early February 2025, as the Madhya Pradesh government eyes the completion of both metro phases before the state elections in 2028.

According to sources, the state is keen to leverage the metro’s progress as a key infrastructure milestone in the upcoming polls.

A consultant for the Madhya Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MPMRCL), speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed a shift in strategy to address the delays that plagued Phase I.

The new approach involves constructing the entire route simultaneously, with an estimated timeline of 24 to 36 months for Phase II completion. This strategy is expected to avoid the bottlenecks that have hampered progress since 2019.

Phase II, the Blue Line, will extend approximately 15 km from Bhadbhada Square to Ratnagiri Intersection, featuring 14 elevated stations. This route aims to improve connectivity and cater to the growing transportation needs of the city. A key focus is ensuring that this phase avoids the multi-contractor issues that delayed Phase I.

The Madhya Pradesh government has set a goal to complete a 31-km metro stretch before the 2028 elections, demonstrating its commitment to infrastructure development. 

A trial run on the priority corridor of Phase I was conducted ahead of the 2023 state elections, highlighting the project's political significance.

Coordination with multiple agencies was identified as a major challenge during the initial phase. Meetings with senior officials have highlighted the need for streamlined collaboration with entities such as the Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC), police, Public Works Department (PWD), and road development authorities.

Lessons learned from Phase I are being integrated into the planning for Phase II, with all necessary clearances set to be secured months in advance.