Four Metro Lines by November in Bengaluru: Deputy CM DK Shivakumar

BENGALURU (Metro Rail News): Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar revealed exciting news about Bengaluru’s metro system during a recent review of the Namma Metro project. By November, the city will see the addition of four metro lines, bringing enhanced connectivity to its residents and visitors.

During his visit to the offices of Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL), Mr. Shivakumar discussed ways to speed up metro construction, increase non-fare revenue, and introduce new lines. These discussions aim to expedite the expansion of the metro network.

The upcoming lines include the Baiyappanahalli-KR Pura line, which covers 2.1 kilometres and is expected to open in July. Additionally, the Kengeri-Chellaghatta line, covering 1.9 kilometers, will be completed by August or September. The Nagasandra-Madavara line, spanning a distance of 3 kilometres, has been under construction since 2017 and is expected to be opened to the public in either September or October. Finally, the RV Road-Bommasandra line (19.14 kilometers), connecting Electronics City, will be operational in October or November. Moreover, a 58-kilometer Silk Board-KR Pura-Airport line is planned for completion by June 2026.

Mr. Shivakumar also emphasized the importance of making the metro financially profitable. Currently, most of its earnings are allocated to operational expenses. To address this, he proposed strategies to boost non-fare revenue, such as removing advertisement restrictions. Additionally, he recommended the adoption of a group captive model to reduce the metro’s power bill.

Regarding future plans, Shivakumar mentioned that the Phase 3 Detailed Project Report (DPR) of the metro has been forwarded to the union government. He would travel to Delhi and discuss it with the concerned minister for approval. Phase 3A will consist of a 12-kilometre line from Hosahalli to Kadabagere and a 43-kilometer line from Hebbal to JP Nagar Fourth Phase. Moreover, surveys are being conducted for Phase 3B (Sarjapur-Hebbal), and Shivakumar emphasized the need for surveys on new lines.

Although a BMRCL official declined to comment, clarifying that the meeting was solely a review session, Bengaluru’s residents can look forward to significant improvements in the city’s metro infrastructure with the forthcoming metro lines and ongoing efforts to enhance revenue and efficiency.