- Priority Corridor set for operations
Bhopal: With approval from the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS), the Bhopal Metro is now on the brink of beginning commercial services. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to inaugurate the metro soon, with December 13 tentatively marked for the launch. Ahead of this, final preparations are underway, including the completion of schedules and fare structures.
The metro will initially operate on the 6.22-kilometer Priority Corridor between Subhash Nagar and AIIMS. All eight stations along the route are ready, while elevators, escalators, and décor are undergoing final checks. Preparations are expected to be completed by December 10. According to the Metro Corporation, trains will run every 30 minutes on this stretch. Once the full 16-kilometer Orange Line—from AIIMS to Karond—becomes operational, the frequency will increase to one train every 10 minutes.
The proposed operational hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., a schedule chosen to support the heavy daily traffic between MP Nagar, AIIMS, and Subhash Nagar. With many government and private offices located in MP Nagar, the metro is expected to offer significant commuter convenience.
Although December 13 is the tentative inauguration date, the Prime Minister’s Office has not confirmed PM Modi’s program, making the date subject to change. Meanwhile, metro management has completed arrangements at all eight stations, including staffing and ticket counters, ensuring readiness for passengers.
Bhopal will eventually receive 27 metro trains, nine of which have already arrived and are undergoing trials on the tracks.
