Indore Metro gets $190 million boost from Asian Development Bank.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $190 million loan for the Indore Metro Rail Project, a key initiative designed to significantly enhance urban mobility, reduce pollution, and promote inclusive growth in Madhya Pradesh. The funding will support the development of a crucial section of the metro system, according to an ADB press release.

The project is specifically aimed at financing the construction of an 8.62-kilometre underground metro line that will feature seven stations. This vital corridor will connect some of Indore's most congested areas directly to the airport. The metro system is being designed with a strong emphasis on accessibility, incorporating modern features such as ramps, lifts, CCTV surveillance, and emergency response systems to cater to the needs of the elderly, women, children, and persons with disabilities.

"Indore's rapid urbanisation has led to congestion, pollution, and limited mobility for vulnerable populations," said Mio Oka, ADB Country Director for India. "This project will not only modernise public transport but also empower women and marginalised communities through targeted employment and entrepreneurship opportunities."

The new metro line is projected to deliver substantial environmental benefits, with an estimated annual reduction of 12,414 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent in greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to improved air quality in one of India's fastest-growing urban centres.

Beyond infrastructure, the project emphasizes multimodal integration with existing bus and feeder services, thereby improving access to essential facilities like educational institutions and markets. To further promote inclusivity, commercial spaces at select metro stations will be allocated to women entrepreneurs and self-help groups. Safety audits and ridership data will inform future improvements to the system.

A comprehensive multimodal integration study will also be conducted to optimize connectivity between the metro, airport, railway, and bus networks. The ADB's support extends to planning initiatives specifically designed to benefit women and girls, including internship and training programs aimed at building capacity for women within the transport sector. The ADB will also collaborate with existing transit-oriented development (TOD) technical assistance to enhance Indore's TOD planning and policy frameworks.

The Madhya Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MPMRCL) is tasked with implementing the project, with operations anticipated to commence by January 2030.