Bhopal Metro to gain speed with signalling upgrade:Work begins under ₹800 crore tender for 30 km corridor

A major step has been taken to accelerate metro operations in Bhopal. Work on the signalling system has started on the priority corridor between Subhash Nagar and AIIMS. This is the first phase of a tender worth approximately ₹800 crore for a nearly 30 km stretch. Single-track operation slowing services At present, due to the absence of a signalling system, metro authorities are operating trains on only one track (down track). As a result: The up track (AIIMS to Subhash Nagar) is not yet fully ready for operations. Because of single-track functioning, train movement remains limited and each round trip takes longer. Currently, the metro is operating in a low-frequency mode. Signalling system is the backbone According to experts, the signalling system is the most critical component of any metro network. It: Without this system, full operational capacity cannot be achieved. Safety trial to be conducted again After completion of the signalling work, metro authorities will invite the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) for inspection. Regular operations on the up track will begin only after: Advanced technology similar to Delhi Metro The Bhopal Metro will use advanced signalling technology similar to that implemented in the Delhi Metro. Once implemented: