Facing growing public frustration over prolonged delays, the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (BMRCL) has laid out a concrete roadmap to significantly expand the city's network. The plan aims to make nearly 79 kilometres of new corridors operational within the next two years, potentially doubling the operational network from the current 96km to approximately 175km.
Revised Timelines for Pink and Blue Lines
Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar announced the updated schedules after a review meeting on Monday. The long-awaited expansion will focus on two major corridors: the Pink Line and the Blue Line.
For the Pink Line (Kalena Agrahara to Nagawara), the elevated section from Kalena Agrahara to Tavarekere (Swagath Cross Road) is now targeted to open by mid-2026. The subsequent underground stretch from Dairy Circle to Nagawara is expected to be ready by the end of 2026.
The Blue Line, connecting Central Silk Board to Kempegowda International Airport, will be commissioned in phases due to its slow progress. The segment from Central Silk Board to KR Pura along Outer Ring Road is slated for completion by 2026. The remaining 38km stretch from KR Pura to the airport will open in a staggered manner, with full operations expected by 2027.
Orange Line Tenders and Future Extensions
In a significant update for Phase III, Shivakumar stated that tenders for the 45km Orange Line will be floated in January 2026. This follows the project's central approval in August 2024. The tendering process was delayed as the state government opted for an innovative double-decker design, combining a road flyover with a Metro viaduct above, which required additional studies.
This ambitious Orange Line project is estimated to cost Rs 25,311 crore, with a loan planned from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The road flyover component alone is pegged at Rs 9,700 crore. Officials believe the design will ultimately ease road congestion, despite causing initial delays.
Looking further ahead, the government has directed BMRCL to extend the Magadi Road Metro corridor from Kadabagere to Tavarekere. Studies are also underway to explore Metro services to peripheral areas like Bidadi, Nelamangala, Devanahalli, and Hoskote.
Immediate Relief for Commuters and Rolling Stock Updates
In some immediate good news for daily passengers, BMRCL is providing relief on the Yellow Line (RV Road to Bommasandra). A sixth train will be inducted into service, reducing peak-hour frequency from 15 minutes to 13 minutes from Monday to Saturday. Sunday frequency remains at 15 minutes for now.
Furthermore, a seventh trainset has been received and is expected to enter service in January. Once operational, it will reduce peak-hour gaps to 10 minutes and allow early-morning services to start at 6 am instead of 6:30 am.
Ahead of the Pink Line's commissioning, the first prototype trainset has arrived at the Kalena Agrahara depot. Manufactured by BEML, the three-coach prototype will undergo an extensive six-month testing and certification process, including static tests and integration with signalling systems, starting in January.
Shivakumar also emphasized the need for adequate parking facilities at upcoming stations, directing BMRCL to acquire the necessary land. This move addresses a critical concern for last-mile connectivity as the network expands deeper into Bengaluru's suburbs.
