Controversy Surrounds Palasia Square Metro, PWD's Elevated Corridor In Indore

Controversy has erupted over the proposed Indore Metro project and the Public Works Department's (PWD) elevated corridor at Palasia Square, raising questions about potential collusion between the two infrastructural initiatives. 

As per media reports, concerns have been raised regarding the possibility of the Metro rail overlapping with PWD's elevated corridor, which in turn is already overlapping with the Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS).

The Metro project report, demanded by Madhya Pradesh Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya for the corridor from Robot Square to Treasure Island, is expected to be submitted next week. Once approved, proper work on the project is set to commence. 

Anil Joshi, the Metro's additional managing director, clarified, "The Metro project will run above the corridor, with pillars positioned 15 metres above the road."

The proposed plan entails an elevated corridor above six metres in height, with Metro pillars above this level. The Metro track, spanning over three metres, will be situated above the pillars. The Metro route is set to originate from the Patrakar Colony Metro Station, pass through the elevated corridor, and halt at the Chappan Dukaan Metro Station.

While tenders for the construction of the Metro corridor are yet to be issued to the agency, Urban Development Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya has requested feasibility reports for the proposed corridor. It is anticipated that these reports will be submitted next week, following which further decisions and discussions will ensue.

Meanwhile, progress is swiftly underway for the next phase of the Metro corridor construction, which aims to connect Robot Square (Shaheed Park) and Treasure Island. A survey conducted by the consultant agency is identifying private-government constructions and encroachments obstructing the corridor.

Additionally, marking work is being carried out to pinpoint potential locations for Metro stations between Robot Square and Palasia. This section is slated to host Metro stations at Robot Square, Khajrana Square, Bengali Square, Patrakar Colony, and Palasia Square (around Chappan Dukaan).

The contentious issue surrounding the alignment of the Metro project with existing infrastructure underscores the complexities involved in urban development initiatives. As stakeholders await the submission of feasibility reports, the future of these projects remains subject to ongoing deliberations and assessments.