Indore Hits the Fast Track: Metro Trains Begin Rolling, Ushering in a New Era

Indore has officially joined India’s metro map as Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the city’s first metro rail service on May 31, marking a historic leap in Madhya Pradesh’s public transport. The launch, conducted virtually from Bhopal, was part of a special event celebrating women empowerment and the 300th birth anniversary of Devi Ahilyabai Holkar.

 

Key Highlights:

 

First Metro Service in Madhya Pradesh: Indore becomes the 24th Indian city to operate a metro, with commercial services kicking off on a 6-kilometre “Super Priority Corridor” between Gandhi Nagar Station and Station No. 3 on the Super Corridor. This stretch features five stations, each named after iconic women: Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar, Maharani Lakshmi Bai, Rani Avanti Bai Lodhi, Rani Durgavati, and Veerangana Jhalkari Bai.

 

Special Inaugural Ride: The first metro journey was reserved for women passengers, including sanitation workers, highlighting the city’s focus on inclusivity and empowerment.

 

Modern Amenities and Safety: The metro boasts rustproof stainless steel coaches, LED TVs, digital route maps, emergency systems, and is staffed by 150 ex-servicemen for security. The initial trains have three coaches, each accommodating up to 980 passengers, with infrastructure ready for six-coach expansions.

 

Free Rides and Future Plans: For the first week, rides are free to encourage residents to experience the new service. The full metro network will eventually span 31.32 km with 28 stations, aiming to ease traffic congestion and pollution while offering a faster, cleaner commute.

 

Indore’s metro launch is seen as a transformative step, blending modern infrastructure with the city’s rich heritage and setting the stage for a greener, more connected future.

 

Sources: Financial Express, Times of India, Economic Times