Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan inaugurated the first phase of Bhopal Metro Train on Tuesday.
During the approximately 5 km trial run from Subhash Nagar to Rani Kamalapati Station, Chouhan waved the green flag, emphasizing the significance of this transport system.
Safe and Convenient Travel
Chouhan highlighted that the metro signifies safe, comfortable, and eco-friendly travel compared to other modes of transportation.
He stressed the importance of features such as online ticketing, pollution-free travel, and affordability, making it a convenient choice for the public.
Expansion Plans and Memories
Chouhan expressed his pride in the swift completion of the first phase, which included five stations, achieved within a record eight months.
He reminisced about the days when he relied solely on tongas (horse-drawn carriages) for local commuting after finishing his Class 4 studies.
He mentioned the city’s transition from tempos to a well-developed metro system, underscoring the city’s progress.
Future Prospects and Project Details
Looking ahead, the Chief Minister announced plans to extend metro services to Mandideep, Sehore, and Vidisha if there is a demand.
The Bhopal Metro project, with a total construction cost of ₹6,941 crores, encompasses 30.95 km of tracks.
The project includes the 16.77 km-long Orange Line from AIIMS to Karond and the 14.18 km-long Blue Line from Bhadbhada Chouraha to Ratnagiri Tiraha, ensuring extensive connectivity across the city.