Commuters in central Bengaluru are set to receive a significant New Year's gift as the long-awaited reopening of Kamaraj Road is finally on the horizon. The crucial stretch, which has been shut for over six years due to construction of the Namma Metro's Pink Line, is likely to be fully accessible to two-way traffic from the first week of January 2026.
A Long-Awaited Relief for Commuters
The reopening of Kamaraj Road between the Cubbon Road and Cauvery Emporium junction is expected to bring major relief to the traffic situation in Bengaluru's central business district (CBD). The road's closure since June 2019 has forced vehicles onto alternative routes like MG Road and Brigade Road, exacerbating congestion in these already busy areas. Its restoration will re-establish a vital link, potentially reducing travel time for those commuting from Commercial Street, Dickenson Road, and Cubbon Road towards MG Road.
The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) took over the stretch to build the underground MG Road station for the Pink Line. While the initial deadline for reopening was set for 2023, a combination of factors including the Covid-19 pandemic, complex tunnelling work, and other technical challenges led to a delay of several years. A partial reopening did occur in February 2025, allowing limited one-way traffic from Cauvery Emporium towards Commercial Street.
Road Restoration and Final Steps
All major civil works on the stretch are now complete. The road has been rebuilt and features a new white-topped surface, making it ready for regular traffic. Authorities have indicated that the road will be opened to the public after receiving the final clearance from the traffic police. Current indications point to January 2, 2026, as the likely date for both sides of the road to become operational.
This development is not just about surface transport. The new underground station at MG Road is designed to be an integrated hub, connecting seamlessly with the existing elevated station of the Purple Line. This integration is expected to significantly improve passenger movement and connectivity once the entire Pink Line becomes operational.
Green Makeover on the Cards
The massive infrastructure project did come at an environmental cost, with over 80 trees being removed during the construction phase. In a bid to compensate and beautify the area, agencies are planning a green makeover for the Kamaraj Road stretch. This initiative is expected to be undertaken in partnership with private entities, aiming to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the area ahead of the full commencement of station operations.
The reopening of Kamaraj Road marks the end of a prolonged period of inconvenience for daily commuters and businesses in the heart of Bengaluru. It stands as a testament to the complex challenges of urban infrastructure development in a bustling metropolis, finally yielding a tangible result for the city's residents.
