Travelling in the Bhopal Metro will soon transcend beyond mere commuting. The Madhya Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MPMRCL) has devised a comprehensive action plan to transform Metro stations into ‘Multi-Service Commercial Hubs.’ Under this initiative, passengers and citizens will have access to a wide array of facilities, ranging from educational coaching and retail shopping to banking and healthcare, all under one roof. ‘Study with Transit’: In a unique move, the Metro management has prioritised the establishment of coaching centres within station premises. Officials believe that the world-class infrastructure, centralised air conditioning, and high-tech security systems provide an ideal environment for educational institutions. This ‘Study with Transit’ model aims to relieve students from the city’s heavy traffic and pollution. With 24-hour CCTV surveillance and a controlled environment, these stations are expected to be the safest educational hubs, particularly for female students. Tenders are being invited to convert large halls and vacant areas into modern classrooms, counselling centres, and faculty rooms. Strategic shift to non-fare revenue: Since the commencement of commercial operations on December 20, the Bhopal Metro has struggled to meet expected ridership numbers.

 

To offset high operational costs, which recently led to a reduction in train frequency, the management is pivoting towards non-fare revenue. Leasing out vacant spaces for cafes, retail outlets, ATMs, salons, and clinics has become essential for the project’s financial sustainability. One-Stop destination for commuters: The goal is to evolve stations from mere transit points into active urban hubs through an integrated service model. Educational needs will be addressed through modern coaching and career counselling centres, while the lifestyle requirements of commuters will be met by a variety of retail and dining options, including food courts, cafes, and specialised kiosks. Additionally, the plan incorporates healthcare and financial services by allocating space for small clinics, pharmacies, ATMs, and digital kiosks. Even personal care has been considered, with plans to open modern salons and grooming centres within the premises. By integrating these diverse services, MPMRCL expects a natural increase in station footfall as people visit the stations for their daily needs. While station pillars have already been allotted for advertising, tenders for the allocation of interior commercial properties will be floated soon. MP Metro Rail Corporation Managing Director S Krishna Chaitanya said, “We are planning to utilise the available vacant spaces at stations more effectively.

 

Under the transit-oriented model, our objective is to boost non-fare revenue. As a part of this plan, there is a proposal to allow coaching classes or other commercial activities in the available spaces at certain stations. However, this will not be mandatory. Any institution or individual interested in taking the space can apply as per the prescribed terms and conditions. This initiative will help generate additional revenue for the metro while also providing added facilities for the public.