Bhopal Metro authorities are preparing to upgrade operations on the priority corridor between Subhash Nagar and AIIMS by installing and commissioning a new signalling system. Both reports say the signalling work for the corridor is complete and the Madhya Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (MPMRC) has requested an inspection by the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) to obtain final clearance. A CMRS team is expected to arrive in late June or early July, and the revised timetable is planned to be implemented after approval.
At present, metro services are restricted because the signalling system is not fully operational, limiting trains to a single track (the down track) and resulting in infrequent service, with long gaps between departures. With the signalling system coming into service, trains are expected to run in both directions on the corridor from July. This is expected to reduce waiting time for passengers from about 75 minutes to about 25 minutes and increase the number of trips per day.
The reports also note that train speed and operating hours are expected to improve, moving from a limited schedule toward service spanning morning through late evening. Modern signalling technology similar to that used in Delhi Metro is being implemented, and engineering teams are carrying out related checks during the clearance process.
