NEW DELHI: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a USD 190 million loan to support the Indore Metro Rail Project, a significant initiative aimed at improving urban mobility, reducing pollution, and fostering inclusive growth in Madhya Pradesh, as stated in a company press release.
The project will fund the construction of an 8.62-kilometre underground metro line featuring seven stations, connecting congested areas of Indore to the airport. Designed with modern standards, the metro will offer accessibility features such as ramps, lifts, CCTV surveillance, and emergency response systems for elderly individuals, women, children, and persons with disabilities.
“Indore’s rapid urbanization has resulted in congestion, pollution, and limited mobility for vulnerable populations,” remarked ADB Country Director for India, Mio Oka. “This project will not only modernize public transportation but also empower women and marginalized communities through focused employment and entrepreneurship opportunities.”
The initiative is expected to significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions, reducing an estimated 12,414 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent annually, thereby enhancing air quality in one of India’s fastest-growing urban centers.
The project includes multimodal integration with existing bus and feeder services, enhancing access to educational institutions and markets. Selected stations will allocate commercial spaces to women entrepreneurs and self-help groups, with safety audits and ridership data steering future enhancements.
A multimodal integration study will be conducted to optimize connectivity between the metro, airport, railway, and bus systems. ADB’s support will also encompass planning efforts that benefit women and girls, including internship and training programs designed to bolster their presence in the transport sector.
Furthermore, ADB will collaborate on existing transit-oriented development (TOD) technical assistance to improve Indore’s TOD planning and policies.
The Madhya Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MPMRCL) will oversee the project, with operations anticipated to commence by January 2030.
