Metro stations in Bhopal and Indore are set to become commercial hubs, with shops and food outlets planned within station premises. The Madhya Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation has identified 4,630 square metres across five stations for commercial activities, with operations targeted to begin within six months. The initiative is also expected to generate around 10,000 direct and indirect jobs. Bhopal Stations Get 3,230 Sqm: In Bhopal, tenders have been invited for 3,230 square metres at Board Office Square and Subhash Nagar metro stations. Of this, 710 square metres will be available at Board Office station and 2,520 square metres at Subhash Nagar.

 

The deadline for submitting online bids is November 16, while tenders will be opened on November 17. Three Stations Identified In Indore: In Indore, 1,400 square metres have been earmarked for commercial activities at ISBT, Hiranagar and Bapat metro stations. Tenders for these locations will be issued shortly. Ten-Year Licence With Two-Year Lock-In: Selected firms will receive commercial space on a 10-year licence. The agreement will include a two-year lock-in period, during which firms cannot surrender the allotted premises.

 

A 180-day advance notice will be required for termination after the lock-in period. Partial surrender of the allotted space will not be permitted. Licence Fee To Rise Five Per Cent Annually: Bidders will quote monthly licence fees per square metre, payable in advance every three months. The fee will increase by 5% annually on a compound basis. GST, electricity, water and other applicable charges will be payable separately. Firms Get 180 Days To Set Up: Selected firms will have 180 days from the allotment date to develop their outlets, with the period treated as a fitment window. Licence fees will become applicable after this period, although firms starting operations earlier may have to pay from the date they commence business.

 

The cost of construction and development will be borne by the firms. Only temporary structures will be permitted with the metro corporation's approval, and passenger movement and station security must not be affected. Tender Conditions For Bhopal Stations: For Board Office station, the commercial area measures 710 square metres, with an earnest money deposit of Rs 1.20 lakh and a minimum average annual turnover requirement of Rs 86.27 lakh. At Subhash Nagar, the available area is 2,520 square metres, with an earnest money deposit of Rs 4.20 lakh and a minimum average annual turnover requirement of Rs 3.13 crore. Both tenders carry a 10-year licence period and a two-year lock-in. Metro Plans To Boost Non-Fare Revenue: Metro Rail Corporation Managing Director S Krishna Chaitanya said the corporation was working to increase non-fare revenue. Tenders have also been issued for station naming rights, announcements and advertising.