Indore Metro Faces Opposition Over Underground Corridor

The proposed underground Metro corridor in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, has faced opposition from residents of colonies between Bengali Square and Palasia.

More than 300 residents gathered at Bengali Square to protest the underground alignment, raising concerns over its impact on old houses, borewells, and other structures.

Madhya Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MPMRCL) has assured that public and structural safety will remain its top priorities during construction. The underground section from the Airport area towards the railway station has been planned to minimise disruption to traffic, residential areas, commercial activity, and public movement.

For the first time in Indore, Metro tunnels will be constructed using a Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM). A Mixed Face Shield TBM will construct tunnels at depths of around 9 to 28 metres, with a diameter of approximately 5.8 metres.

Permanent precast RCC rings will provide structural stability. MPMRCL will conduct Building Condition Surveys for structures within approximately 30 metres of the tunnelling zone. Sensors will monitor the ground and nearby buildings to detect changes and allow corrective action, if required.

The corporation has cited Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Lucknow as cities where underground Metro construction has been undertaken in densely populated areas.

Despite the assurances, residents remain concerned that tunnelling could cause cracks in old houses and affect borewells. They have sought an alternative alignment.

MPMRCL has urged residents not to circulate unverified information and to rely on authorised sources. It reiterated that construction would follow prescribed technical and safety standards.

The opposition from residents highlights the challenges faced by infrastructure projects in densely populated areas. As the city of Indore continues to grow and develop, it is essential to balance the need for modern infrastructure with the concerns of local residents.

The Indore Metro project is a significant undertaking that aims to improve the city's transportation system. The project's success will depend on the ability of MPMRCL to address the concerns of local residents while ensuring the safety and structural integrity of the underground corridor.