Indore and Bhopal Declared Metropolitan Regions - MP Urban Development Plan
The Madhya Pradesh government has initiated steps to develop Indore and Bhopal as metropolitan cities. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav's government has introduced the “Madhya Pradesh Metropolitan Region Planning and Development Bill 2025.” This bill was tabled in the state assembly and includes the formation of a Metropolitan Planning Committee, Development Authority, Integrated Transport Authority, and a dedicated metropolitan area development plan.
Investment and Development Plan
The development plan for both cities will span at least 15 years. It will define strategies for economic growth, land use, water drainage, traffic, industrial zones, tourism, water supply, forest conservation, and more. A Planning Committee will assist in drafting this Metropolitan Investment and Development Plan. The Chief Minister will head the Authority, with ministers from Urban Development, Panchayat & Rural Development, and Revenue as vice-chairpersons, along with the Chief Secretary as a member.
A Draft Plan will be prepared and approved by the Metropolitan Planning Committee. Public suggestions and objections will be invited before the final approval by the state government. After official approval, implementation will begin.
Special Powers and Funding
The government will allocate ₹200 crore as a development fund, and the Metropolitan Authority will generate an additional ₹100 crore on its own. It will be empowered with rights for land acquisition and levying new taxes. Metropolitan Commissioners will receive enhanced powers for inspection and surveys.
Integration with Nearby Cities
The government plans to expand the metropolitan area by integrating Indore with Ujjain, Dewas, and Dhar. A similar plan is in progress for the Bhopal region.
Building Permissions Remain Local
Even after forming the Metropolitan Authority, local bodies will retain the right to issue building permissions. Government departments must inform the Authority before beginning any construction. In case of objection, the Authority can revoke permissions. Appeals can be made in case of denial. Local municipalities will issue building permissions as usual.