THE ‘City of Lakes’ is set for a world class urban evolution, aimed at elevating its aesthetic identity to match the standards of global metropolises like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru and Ahmedabad. Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) has unveiled an ambitious ‘Mega Transformation Plan’ to overhaul the city’s busiest intersections and parks under the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) model. This project aims to turn functional traffic squares into artistic landmarks through modern design, smart lighting, and dense urban greenery.

 

Deputy Commissioner Hirendra Singh Kushwah stated that the pilot phase prioritises entry points and major commercial hubs. Under this model, BMC will act as the nodal and guiding agency, while prominent corporate firms will bear the costs of redevelopment and lifetime maintenance. This strategic move ensures a world-class facelift for the city without placing a financial burden on the municipal exchequer. The ‘Elite 16’: Landmarks Undergoing Redevelopment: BMC has identified 16 lifelines of the city for the first phase of the overhaul.

 

These are not merely being decorated but completely redesigned with specific themes: Bhadbhada Square-Proximity to the lake will see it developed on a ‘Water-Front’ theme, emphasising its natural surroundings. Shahpura Square-This will be reimagined as a ‘Community Space’ with artistic installations and specialized seating arrangements for pedestrians. Link Road No. 3-This administrative artery will be modeled after Bengaluru’s famous ‘Green Corridors’, featuring lush vertical gardens and air-purifying plant species.

 

Areas like Roshanpura, Board Office, and 10-No. Market will see a modernisation of traffic signals and pedestrian infrastructure, while the grandeur of Bharat Mata Chowk will be significantly enhanced. Mirroring the aesthetics of New Delhi and Mumbai, the redevelopment includes:Use of energy-efficient LED systems to give the city a distinct nightlife identity. Digital signage and disabled-friendly pavements for inclusive urban mobility. High definition CCTV networks linked to the Traffic Management Center for real-time monitoring.

 

Selection of carbon-absorbing, low-maintenance flora to combat urban heat. BMC administration is set to invite formal tenders and Requests for Proposals (RFP) in the coming weeks. Several corporate giants have reportedly expressed interest in adopting these landmarks. If successful, this pilot project will serve as a ‘game changer,’ with plans to extend the model to the historic squares of Old Bhopal. Citizens can expect to experience a global metropolitan vibe on the city’s streets within the next six to eight months.