Nagpur Metro Expansion Faces Delay Over Inner Ring Road Transit Options

Nagpur, Maharashtra, India — February 26, 2026

Nagpur metro development encounters a setback as conflicting proposals for mass rapid transit on the Inner Ring Road create uncertainty for future connectivity in the city.

Background

Nagpur has advanced its public transport infrastructure through the Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited (Maha Metro), which operates existing lines and plans expansions under Phase III to cover growing urban corridors. The Inner Ring Road serves as a vital arterial route connecting key areas like Mankapur Square, Prajapati Nagar, Chhatrapati Square, and Hingna Road. Amid rising vehicular traffic—reportedly adding 353 new vehicles daily—authorities seek efficient alternatives to buses or rail to reduce congestion, emissions, and travel times in this central Indian city.

What Happened

A dispute has emerged between the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) and Maha Metro regarding the proposed Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) on the Inner Ring Road stretch. NMC advocates for electric articulated trolley buses on the corridor, while Maha Metro proposes a metro rail extension from Mankapur Square to Rachana Ring Road Junction on Hingna Road via Prajapati Nagar and Chhatrapati Square. This conflict has stalled decision-making on the transit mode, delaying progress on the route.

Why It Matters

Resolution of the transit choice directly affects commuters in Nagpur, where daily traffic pressures contribute to longer travel times, higher fuel use, and air quality concerns. A clear path forward would enhance urban mobility, support economic activity in commercial and residential zones, and align with sustainable transport goals in a city experiencing steady population and vehicle growth.

Official Response

Reports indicated ongoing discussions between NMC and Maha Metro to address the differing proposals, with no immediate consensus reached on the preferred system for the corridor.

What Happens Next

Negotiations are expected to continue between the civic body and metro authority to finalize the transit technology and implementation plan. Outcomes could influence timelines for Phase III metro work and related infrastructure upgrades in the coming months.