Traffic Study Projects Doubling of Passengers in Indore by 2041

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has presented a proposal to the state government recommending the integration of Indore, Ujjain, and Pithampur through the Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS). This initiative is projected to significantly improve future traffic management and reduce travel time between these cities.

Based on successful implementations between Delhi and Ghaziabad, DMRC has outlined three potential routes, with a particular emphasis on an 85-kilometer joint route linking Indore, Ujjain, and Pithampur. This proposed route, costing approximately ₹17,000 crore, would reduce travel time from the current four hours to just one hour.

Comprehensive Traffic Study
DMRC's extensive study of daily traffic between Indore, Ujjain, and Pithampur, as well as nearby cities such as Dewas and Dhar, indicates a substantial increase in commuters over the coming years. Currently, out of a total of 10.3 lakh daily commuters, 3 lakh travel from these nearby cities. Projections estimate this number will rise to 4 lakh by 2028, 4.51 lakh by 2031, and 6.38 lakh by 2041.

Benefits of the RRTS
The RRTS, similar to the metro but designed for higher speeds and longer distances, promises to revolutionize travel in the region. It operates on a combination of rail networks, viaducts, and underground tracks, with potential speeds ranging from 160 to 180 kilometers per hour, and an average speed of 160 kilometers per hour. This system significantly outpaces the metro, which has an average speed of 30-35 kilometers per hour.

K. Ramgopal Sharma, a former general manager, highlighted that while the metro serves intra-city transportation, the RRTS will enhance connectivity between satellite cities, allowing residents to commute easily for work without relocating. This integration with Indore's existing track will further streamline the transit experience.

Proposed Routes
DMRC has proposed three routes, with the third being identified as the most advantageous:

Indore-Ujjain-Pithampur Joint Route:

Distance: 85 km
Stations: 29 (including 7.7 km underground and 77.9 km elevated)
Cost: ₹17,634 crore
Mahakaleshwar to Sanwer via Dharampuri:

Distance: 49.6 km
Stations: 9 (including 4.7 km underground and 44.8 km elevated)
Cost: ₹8,941 crore
Vijaynagar to Pithampur via Rajendra Nagar and Rau:

Distance: 34 km
Stations: 13 (entire route elevated)
Cost: ₹6,586 crore

Conclusion
The proposed RRTS will not only reduce travel time but also enhance economic opportunities and improve the quality of life for residents in Indore, Ujjain, and Pithampur. This strategic investment in regional connectivity is poised to support the anticipated increase in commuter traffic over the next two decades.