Old Bhopal Set For Major Transformation Under Master Plan 2047 With Wider Roads

Bhopal's Old City is set for significant redevelopment under the proposed Master Plan 2047, with a focus on expanding roads and preserving historical structures. The plan outlines widening roads narrower than 9 meters to the standard width across 25 key areas. Additionally, Heritage Transferable Development Rights (TDR) have been proposed to support the conservation of historically significant buildings.

However, the implementation mechanism, including coordination and execution of redevelopment measures, has raised questions among experts. Roads in the designated areas will initially be marked for a width of 9 meters, with a subsequent reduction in the Floor Area Ratio (FAR) for plots along these roads. The aim is to enhance connectivity and mitigate congestion in densely built-up parts of Old Bhopal, where several roads are significantly narrower and buildings are closely situated to the road.

The plan includes identifying buildings of archaeological or historical importance through a municipal survey and granting Heritage TDR to landowners who agree to conservation conditions. The Urban Development and Housing Department is set as the nodal agency for the implementation process.