Consensus on underground Metro from Khajrana to Bada Ganpati:Vijayvargiya slams Metro consultants over chaos, vows no demolition at Malharganj, says project won’t ruin Indore’s charm

In a significant step toward transforming Indore’s transport network, the proposal for the Metro’s underground route from Khajrana to Palasia and Bada Ganpati received unanimous approval during a high-level coordination meeting chaired by Urban Development and Housing Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya on Monday. Describing the move as a historic decision for Indore’s economic growth and traffic management, Vijayvargiya said the Metro will now be entirely underground from Khajrana to Bada Ganpati, a route that passes through some of the city’s most congested and heritage-rich zones. This decision will prove historic for Indore. The Metro’s progress must align with the city’s beauty, convenience, and future expansion. We will work together to make it a success. the minister said. Underground route to ensure zero damage to homes and shops Addressing public concerns, Vijayvargiya assured that the Malharganj Metro Station would be constructed using advanced tunnelling technology, similar to the one deployed at Delhi’s Chandni Chowk. No house, shop, or even a flower pot will be damaged. The machine will go 20 metres below the surface and dig horizontally to create the tunnel. The people of Malharganj need not worry. he said. The minister added that earlier resistance from locals stemmed from misinformation. We will meet residents and explain the process. Once they understand, they will support the project. he said. He also confirmed that if necessary, the proposal will be placed before the state cabinet for financial and administrative approval. Admits past lapses in planning; vows aesthetic and technical precision Vijayvargiya acknowledged shortcomings in previous project planning that disrupted urban aesthetics. Vijay Nagar and Radisson Square were damaged due to poor coordination. Over-bridge design options have become unfeasible. We don’t want Indore to lose its beauty for development. he said. He emphasized that while the Metro’s budget is crucial, the city’s development, convenience, and beauty come first. The minister expressed dissatisfaction with the design near Sayaji Hotel, calling it an example of poor design that destroyed the charm of a beautiful road. Even if the project is delayed, Indore should not turn ugly. ACS Sanjay Dubey pushes for tender deadlines, integrated planning Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) Sanjay Dubey instructed all departments to accelerate tender processes and set clear completion timelines for ongoing works. He said that enhanced municipal revenue would directly support faster project implementation and better infrastructure. Dubey also directed the Indore Development Authority (IDA) to: Other key civic and infrastructure decisions Green energy and waterway vision for traffic decongestion Vijayvargiya also appreciated Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargav and the Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC) for their self-reliant planning of the Narmada Phase-IV project, ensuring the city’s water supply until 2040 without state aid. The minister further discussed an ambitious plan to revive the Khan River and introduce mini-steamer transport between Ram Bagh and Navlakha, easing road congestion and creating a new urban tourism corridor. We dream of having live water bodies in the heart of Indore. Once the river is revived, we will make it navigable with small steamers. It will reduce traffic and beautify the city. he said. Minister rebukes consultants, stresses quality over quantity The meeting also witnessed sharp moments when Vijayvargiya criticized Metro consultants and contractors for “unplanned and careless work.” The Metro’s consultant and executing agencies have ruined Indore’s planned structure. Money isn’t the issue but the city must remain beautiful and functional. he remarked, drawing attention to haphazard construction near key junctions. He warned that future negligence in engineering or restoration work would invite strict disciplinary action.