Bhopal Metro Phase II to Impact 33% Fewer Properties Than Phase I, Reports Reveal
The second phase of the Bhopal Metro project, set to be launched by the Madhya Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MPMRCL), will cause disruptions to fewer properties compared to its first phase, according to the latest social impact assessment and resettlement plan. The 14.14 km Blue Line, which will connect Bhadbada Square to Ratnagiri, is expected to begin construction by the end of March 2025, marking a significant milestone in the city’s infrastructure development.
One of the key takeaways from the recently submitted resettlement and rehabilitation (R&R) plan is that Phase II of the Bhopal Metro will affect one-third fewer properties than Phase I. The project has been designed to have minimal disruption to residents and businesses along the proposed route. This reduction in property impact is a testament to the project’s evolving planning process, with significant improvements made based on the lessons learned from Phase I. According to sources within MPMRCL, the impact of the Blue Line metro will mostly involve temporary dislocations. Along a stretch of approximately two kilometres on Chiklod Road (Jehangirabad), the primary construction challenge will involve removing extending sheds to make room for the elevated corridor. Another two-kilometre stretch in Barkhedi will require the removal of 10-foot front sheds, with plans in place for their potential reinstatement post-construction, subject to Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) and local administrative policies. Beyond these two areas, the rest of the Blue Line’s route will see minimal disruption. The impact assessment has categorised the potential dislocations into temporary shifting and permanent relocation, ensuring that the overall effect on property owners and local businesses remains limited.
The social impact assessment and resettlement plan have been based on extensive surveys conducted by MPMRCL over the past five years. These surveys, which included consultations with local stakeholders, have enabled the private contractors to optimise the R&R strategy. This approach ensures that the relocation process will be smooth, and any displaced persons will be adequately compensated and provided with alternative accommodation options. The R&R implementation plan, which is governed by the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation, and Resettlement Act (RTFCTLARR Act), 2013, has been estimated to cost ₹446.87 crore for the entire Bhopal Metro project. The plan focuses on mitigating the social impact of the project while ensuring fair compensation and rehabilitation for those affected.
The Blue Line will feature 14 elevated stations spread across its 14.164 km route. Starting from Bhadbada Square, the line will run eastward through prominent roads such as Bhadbada Road, Jehangirabad Road, Chicklod Road, Pool Bogda Road, and Raisen Road, before reaching its terminus at Ratnagiri Tiraha. The elevated corridor is designed to provide faster and more efficient travel for commuters, easing congestion on existing roads and boosting connectivity between key parts of the city. The project promises to bring long-term benefits to the city, including better mobility, reduced traffic congestion, and enhanced economic opportunities. The increased accessibility to various parts of Bhopal will not only improve the daily commute for residents but will also create new prospects for businesses and local entrepreneurs.
The Bhopal Metro Phase II is a significant step towards modernising the city’s transport infrastructure. With a growing population and increasing demand for public transportation, the metro system offers an eco-friendly and efficient alternative to traditional road transport. This initiative will help address the city’s urban mobility challenges and contribute to its sustainable growth in the years to come. As construction for Phase II is set to commence soon, the people of Bhopal can look forward to improved transportation that will make commuting more convenient while keeping the social impact to a minimum. The project also reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing public infrastructure and improving the quality of life for urban residents.
