Metro coaches in Bhopal and Indore will soon turn into venues for pre-wedding shoots, birthday celebrations, film shootings, and social events as the Metro Rail Corporation launches its new ‘Celebration
on Wheels’ initiative.
Under the scheme, people can book Metro coaches for private celebrations and creative projects by paying between Rs 5,000 and Rs 7,000 per hour.
The facility became operational on Tuesday, allowing citizens to begin applying for bookings for upcoming events.
How Much Will It Cost?
According to Metro officials, an undecorated stationary Metro coach can be rented for Rs 5,000 per hour. Those wanting access to a moving Metro coach during the event will have to pay Rs 7,000 per hour.
Apart from the rental charge, organisers must also deposit a refundable security amount of Rs 20,000 per coach at the time of booking. Authorities stated that reservations must be made at least 15 days in advance, as reported by Bhaskar English.
Guest Limit And Booking Rules
The Metro Rail Corporation has fixed a maximum limit of 50 people for events such as birthday parties, pre-wedding shoots, kitty parties, and other celebrations held inside the metro premises.
If additional guests attend beyond the permitted limit, they must follow normal Metro ticketing and fare rules.
Officials also clarified that organisers and guests will be required to strictly follow metro guidelines, timings, and safety regulations during all events.
What Is Banned In The Metro?
To maintain safety and cleanliness inside the Metro system, several restrictions have been imposed. Authorities said alcohol, beedi-cigarettes, candles, and firecrackers will not be permitted during celebrations or shoots. All guests entering the premises will undergo mandatory security screening before being granted access.
Metro officials added that these restrictions are aimed at ensuring public safety and preventing damage to Metro property.
Why The Metro Started ‘Celebration On Wheels’
The initiative comes at a time when both metro networks are struggling with low passenger numbers despite significant operational costs.
The Metro service in Bhopal was inaugurated on December 20 last year and opened to the public from December 21. Meanwhile, metro operations in Indore began on May 31, 2025. Although ridership was initially encouraging, officials say passenger numbers have since declined sharply. In Bhopal, daily ridership has reportedly dropped to fewer than 100 passengers, while operational expenditure is estimated to reach nearly Rs 8 lakh per day.
Metro authorities believe opening the system for social events and creative activities could help attract more people and familiarise residents with Metro services.
Metro MD Explains The Vision
Speaking about the initiative, Metro Managing Director S Krishna Chaitanya said the concept was designed keeping in mind the changing urban lifestyle and cultural preferences of people in Bhopal and Indore.
According to him, the aim is to bring the Metro closer to ordinary citizens by allowing them to celebrate special moments in a modern, safe, and unique environment.
Officials believe the programme could gradually help make Metro travel a more integrated part of daily life while also boosting public engagement with the transport system.
Similar Facilities Already Exist In Other States
Metro authorities pointed out that similar event-based booking facilities are already available in Metro networks operating in states such as Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh.
The Madhya Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation hopes the initiative will create a new revenue stream while also increasing visibility for metro services in both cities.
Where The Metro Is Currently Operational
Bhopal Metro Route
The Bhopal Metro currently operates on an approximately 6-kilometre stretch with eight stations:
- Subhash Nagar
- KV
- DB Mall
- MP Nagar
- RKPM
- DRM Office
- Alkapuri
- AIIMS
Indore Metro Route
In Indore, Metro services are operational across a 6.3-kilometre corridor covering:
- Gandhinagar
- Super Corridor Station 5
- Super Corridor Station 6
- Super Corridor Station 4
- Super Corridor Station 3
