A special hearing was conducted in Indore on Saturday, despite it being an official holiday, to examine objections raised against the proposed Indore Metro project route. The hearing was chaired by the district collector and focused on concerns related to heritage structures and environmental impact.

Petitioner Kishore Kodwani raised several issues, arguing that the metro company failed to provide satisfactory explanations regarding key aspects of the project. Following the hearing, the administration directed the company to submit detailed documents and reports by June 16.

Heritage Impact Under Question

During the proceedings, the petitioner alleged that the metro project misrepresented a December 7, 2021 letter from the Directorate of Archaeology, Archives and Museums as a clearance, while it actually included several conditions and limited permissions.

He further stated that regulations require a restricted zone of 100 meters and a controlled zone of 200 meters around protected heritage structures. Activities such as construction vibrations, excavation, and technical inspections are subject to strict monitoring and mandatory reporting.

The petitioner also claimed that several historically significant buildings over 100 years old were not included in the project documentation.

Inspection Findings and Distances

An inspection team formed by the district administration on June 2, 2026, examined heritage sites along the proposed metro alignment. According to the findings, key monuments are located within proximity of the route:

• Rajwada is approximately 205 meters away
• Krishna Pura Chhatris are around 188 meters away
• Bolia Chhatri is about 178 meters away

These findings were discussed during the hearing as part of the heritage impact assessment.

Environmental Clearance Concerns

The hearing also highlighted concerns related to environmental clearance and potential impact on groundwater. The petitioner cited provisions of the National Green Tribunal (NGT), arguing that large infrastructure projects require proper Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and statutory approvals.

Questions were also raised regarding non-disclosure of project-related documents and public access to key approvals.

Administration Seeks Detailed Records

After reviewing the submissions, the district administration directed the metro company to provide several critical documents, including:

• Gazette notifications related to heritage structures
• Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report
• Copies of project proposals and alignment plans
• Detailed maps showing alignment changes
• Inspection reports and submitted records

The administration also instructed that copies of relevant documents be shared with the petitioner.

Next Hearing on June 16

The next hearing in the matter is scheduled for June 16, where issues related to heritage conservation, environmental impact, and legal approvals of the Indore Metro project will be examined further.

The case is expected to play a significant role in determining how large urban infrastructure projects balance development with heritage and environmental safeguards.