The planning for the IMR, encompassing Indore, Ujjain, Dewas, and Dhar, until 2051, was initially undertaken by Mehta & Consultant Company under the Indore Development Authority. Data was being collected, but the plan is now undergoing revisions. Areas such as Sonkatch, Maksi, and Badnawar are being added. This expansion will increase the total area to 9361 sq km. The rationale behind this change is Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav’s directive that the IMR planning remain effective until 2051, ensuring no crucial aspect of the region’s development is overlooked. This has led to a renewed effort to create a comprehensive plan.
Focus on Industrial Development: The plan significantly emphasises the development of the industrial sector within the region, linking it to the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor. The inclusion of Badnawar, due to the upcoming PM MITRA Park—a major textile hub—and Dhar’s Pithampur industrial area is noteworthy. Furthermore, the industrial areas of Dewas and Maksī are also included.
Connectivity with Bhopal Region
Previously, the IMR was limited to Dewas, but it is now being extended to Sonkatch. This is because Bhopal’s metropolitan region extends to that area. Connecting the two metropolitan regions will facilitate better coordination. Along with industrial development, the plan also considers environmental factors. Extensive forest areas have been incorporated to maintain a healthy Air Quality Index. Small rivers and ponds have also been included to preserve the natural balance.
Focus on Industrial Development
The plan significantly emphasises the development of the industrial sector within the region, linking it to the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor. The inclusion of Badnawar, due to the upcoming PM MITRA Park—a major textile hub—and Dhar’s Pithampur industrial area is noteworthy. Furthermore, the industrial areas of Dewas and Maksī are also included.
Emphasis on Connectivity
The IMR is centred around Indore, encompassing Ujjain, Dhar, Dewas, and Shajapur districts. While Indore has a major airport, Ujjain and Dhar have airstrips. Indore, Ujjain, Maksī, and Nagda have significant railway junctions. Road connectivity is ensured through national highways including the Mumbai-Agra, Ahmedabad-Indore, and Nagpur routes, along with the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor.
