In a significant push to decongest India's tech capital, the Karnataka government has established a high-level monitoring committee to ensure the ambitious Namma Metro Blue Line project stays on schedule. Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has announced a clear, phased timeline aiming to deliver a seamless metro connection to Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) by mid-2027.
Phased Rollout: Key Deadlines for the Blue Line
The massive 58-kilometre corridor, budgeted at a staggering Rs 15,000 crore, is being developed in crucial phases. The first major milestone is the opening of the Central Silk Board to KR Pura stretch in 2026. This 19-km segment is expected to be a game-changer for thousands of daily commuters traveling between south-east Bengaluru and the bustling Outer Ring Road tech corridor, drastically cutting down travel time.
Authorities have set a firm deadline of December 2027 for the KR Pura to Hebbal section. This stretch is critical as it will finally provide a reliable mass transit option for residents and professionals from Whitefield and Mahadevapura areas heading towards north Bengaluru.
The final airport-bound leg, connecting Hebbal to Kempegowda International Airport, is targeted for completion by June 2027. This link promises to liberate air travelers from the uncertainty and congestion of Ballari Road, offering a direct, efficient metro alternative to cabs and buses.
Addressing Roadblocks: PRR Compensation Streamlined
Recognizing that land acquisition has historically delayed infrastructure projects, Shivakumar addressed parallel issues with the Peripheral Ring Road (PRR). To prevent further holdups, he announced that the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) will now deposit compensation amounts directly to landowners.
In what is being touted as one of the most flexible models in the country, affected landowners have been presented with five compensation options to choose from. These include Transferable Development Rights (TDR), enhanced Floor Area Ratio (FAR), direct monetary compensation, commercial land along the alignment, and other alternative arrangements.
A Firm Stance on Timely Completion
Shivakumar adopted a no-nonsense approach, reiterating that the government will not entertain any pressure for denotification of acquired land. He stressed that land disputes would no longer be allowed to stall the city's critical infrastructure development, sending a clear message to all stakeholders and pressure groups.
With the Blue Line deadlines firmly locked in and the compensation process for the PRR streamlined, the state government is positioning the 2026–2027 period as a definitive turning point for Bengaluru's mobility. The successful execution of these projects is poised to reshape connectivity, reduce chronic road congestion, and accelerate the city's infrastructure growth for years to come.
