Madhya Pradesh: The West Central Railway’s Bhopal Division is examining the possibility of introducing a Vande Metro train service between Indore and Bhopal. The proposed initiative aims to strengthen rail connectivity and reduce travel time for commuters between the two cities.
As part of this exploration, the division will assess suitable routes, available time slots, and logistical needs to ensure the efficient operation of the new train service.
Preliminary insights suggest that the Vande Metro service may utilize the route previously designated for the now-discontinued Indore-Bhopal Double Decker train. This route remains vacant and is free from conflicting train schedules, making it a promising option for the new service.
The proposed Vande Metro could potentially operate two daily round trips between Indore and Bhopal. According to the tentative schedule, the first journey would depart from Bhopal in the morning, reach Indore by midday, and return to Bhopal by afternoon. The second round trip would begin with an evening departure from Bhopal, with the train arriving in Indore and subsequently making a night return journey to Bhopal.
To enable this plan, the Bhopal Division will examine the availability of maintenance slots for the Vande Metro at either the Bhopal or Rani Kamlapati railway yards. A suitable maintenance slot would be essential to ensure smooth operation and upkeep of the train, especially given the two round trips per day that are under consideration.
Currently, most trains traveling between Indore and Bhopal follow the Ujjain route, which results in higher fares and longer travel times. To optimize the Vande Metro service, experts have recommended the Dewas-Maksi route as a preferable alternative. This path is shorter, more direct, and can help lower costs for passengers, making it an ideal choice for commuters seeking a faster and more affordable travel option.
In addition, some experts have proposed a similar Vande Metro service between Ujjain and Bhopal to enhance overall regional connectivity. Such an initiative could provide further convenience for passengers, offering multiple travel options across key urban centers in the region.
If implemented, the Vande Metro service between Indore and Bhopal could bring substantial benefits to local commuters. This service would provide a quicker, more economical travel option, potentially easing congestion on existing routes and making daily commutes more efficient for passengers. The project aligns with broader goals to improve public transportation infrastructure and foster regional connectivity, contributing positively to the area’s socio-economic development.
The Bhopal Division’s exploration into this project reflects its commitment to enhancing travel options and addressing the growing transportation needs of people in central India.
