CMRS approves Bangalore Metro's Kengeri-Challaghatta stretch for commercial operations

Bengaluru, India (Metro Rail Today):  In a significant development for Bengaluru's metro network, the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) has granted clearance for the Kengeri-Challaghatta metro line's commercial operations. This crucial step brings the city one step closer to expanding its metro network and improving urban transportation.

Anjum Parwez, the Managing Director of Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL), confirmed that the CMRS had given the green light for the Kengeri-Challaghatta line. This 1.69-kilometer stretch is situated in the western part of Bengaluru, forming an essential link in the Purple Line's expansion.

The CMRS (Southern Circle), represented by AM Chowdhury, conducted the statutory safety inspection of the Kengeri-Challaghatta line on September 29. It's important to note that CMRS approval is a prerequisite for initiating commercial operations on any metro line.

This news follows closely on the heels of another significant development. On September 25, the CMRS cleared the 2.1-kilometer Baiyappanahalli-KR Pura metro stretch for commercial operations, which includes a new station at Benniganahalli (Tin Factory).

Both the Baiyappanahalli-KR Pura and Kengeri-Challaghatta sections are poised to open together in the near future. However, specific dates for the inauguration are yet to be finalized, according to Anjum Parwez.

Some speculations in reports suggest that these lines could potentially be inaugurated on October 6, but this remains unconfirmed. The timing of the launch depends on how swiftly the BMRCL fulfills the CMRS's conditions and aligns with political leaders' schedules.

Despite its relatively short length of 2.1 kilometers, the Baiyappanahalli-KR Pura metro stretch holds significant importance. It will serve as a vital link connecting the tech hub of Whitefield and its surrounding areas with the Central Business District (CBD) and beyond.

The 13.71-kilometer KR Pura-Whitefield metro line is already operational but remains disconnected from the rest of the metro network. With the opening of both the Baiyappanahalli-KR Pura and Kengeri-Challaghatta sections, the Purple Line's length will nearly reach 43 kilometers. This expansion will contribute to making Bengaluru's metro network the second-largest in the country, covering a total of 73 kilometers.

With the expansion of the metro network, the BMRCL anticipates a substantial increase in daily ridership. The average daily ridership currently stands at 6.3 lakh, and it is expected to surge beyond 7 lakh when the entire Purple Line becomes operational.

This development is a significant stride toward enhancing Bengaluru's public transportation system, reducing traffic congestion, and promoting eco-friendly commuting options.

The CMRS's clearance for the Kengeri-Challaghatta metro line is a positive sign of progress in Bengaluru's efforts to strengthen its urban transportation infrastructure. As the city gears up to open both the Baiyappanahalli-KR Pura and Kengeri-Challaghatta sections, residents can look forward to a more extensive and connected metro network.