Bengaluru, India (Metro Rail Today): In a significant stride towards enhancing Namma Metro connectivity in the tech capital, a detailed project report (DPR) has been meticulously prepared for the new Sarjapur-Hebbal line. This 37-kilometer line, with an estimated cost of Rs 16,543 crore, including land acquisition charges, holds the promise of alleviating commuting challenges for those navigating the tech zones of Bengaluru. The project, previously outlined in the Comprehensive Mobility Plan-2020, is poised to play a pivotal role in decongesting traffic within the city limits.
The proposed alignment of the Sarjapur-Hebbal line unfolds as a strategic blueprint to address the burgeoning transportation needs of the city. Commencing with an elevated corridor near the IT hub in Sarjapur, the line descends underground upon reaching Koramangala. It navigates through the central business district via an intricate tunnel network and reemerges on Ballari Road, featuring two elevated stations at Ganganagar and Hebbal.
What sets this new line apart is its intricate interlinking with existing metro lines. At four crucial points— Iblur, Dairy Circle, KR Circle, and Hebbal—the Sarjapur-Hebbal line seamlessly integrates with the Blue, Pink, Purple, and Phase III lines. This interconnected web enhances the overall efficiency of the metro system, providing commuters with diverse connectivity options.
At Iblur, the Sarjapur-Hebbal line intersects with the Blue Line, offering a crucial connection to the Central Silk Board junction and Kempegowda International Airport. The Dairy Circle station links with the Pink Line, facilitating travel towards Bannerghatta Road or MG Road. Near KR Circle, the integration with the operational Sir M Visvesvaraya station of the Purple Line streamlines travel for passengers. Finally, near Hebbal, the connection to the Blue Line, Phase III, and the suburban rail station further expands the accessibility of the metro network.
“This line's role in decongesting traffic within city limits is crucial, passing through core city areas. Interlinking with operational Metro lines and those under phase II A and B is a significant boon for commuters. For instance, the proposed KR Circle Metro station, near UVCE, will be linked with the Sir M Visvesvaraya station via a subway,” explained a source familiar with the project.
The Sarjapur-Hebbal line is poised to address long-standing challenges related to Ballari Road congestion. Covering an 8-kilometer stretch from Basaveshwara Circle to Hebbal, the line is strategically planned with seven stations—Basaveshwara Circle, Bengaluru Golf Course, Palace Guttahalli, Mehkri Circle, Veterinary College, Ganganagar, and Hebbal. This comprehensive station network aims to ease traffic flow in a significant corridor, impacting the daily commute of countless residents.
With the DPR for the Sarjapur-Hebbal line now ready, Bengaluru's Namma Metro takes a substantial step towards future-forward urban transportation. The integration of this line with existing and upcoming metro routes underscores a holistic approach to city connectivity. As Bengaluru looks ahead to a metro-centric future, this project signifies a proactive measure in addressing the city's evolving transportation needs.