Madhya Pradesh Releases Draft Bhopal Development Plan 2047

The Government of Madhya Pradesh released the draft Bhopal Development Plan 2047 on September 26, 2026, aiming to transform the state capital into a green and inclusive city. Mohan Yadav, the Chief Minister, announced the plan as a roadmap for urban expansion that will incorporate 254 neighboring villages to accommodate 4.5 million people. The proposal includes a 51-km growth corridor connecting the airport and the Education Knowledge Artificial Intelligence City, while targeting an increase in green cover from 16% to 27%.

The rollout follows a September 22 order from the Supreme Court of India allowing conditional implementation of the plan, which had been delayed for over two decades. A central point of contention involves the regulation of commercial activities in residential areas. While the draft proposes allowing mixed land use on roads 18 meters and wider, the Supreme Court ruled that the draft's publication does not provide immediate relief to traders facing the sealing of commercial properties. Existing land-use norms remain in effect until the plan receives judicial sanction.

The draft now enters a three-month period for public claims and objections. While business organizations welcomed the move, the Indian National Congress criticized the timing, alleging the government only acted after a judicial reprimand. Some residents and petitioners have flagged ambiguities regarding environmental protections and resident interests, stating they will submit formal objections to the government and the court.