Eight firms bid for feasibility study of Bengaluru's Madavara-Tumakuru Metro Corridor

Bengaluru, India (Metro Rail Today): In a significant development for Bengaluru's public transportation, eight prominent consultancy firms have shown keen interest in conducting the feasibility study for the proposed extension of the Bangalore Metro rail corridor from Madavara to Tumakuru. This move marks a crucial step towards enhancing connectivity in the region and addressing the growing demand for efficient transit options.

Should the project prove viable, it will be implemented under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, ensuring collaboration between government entities and private stakeholders to optimize resources and expertise. Among the bidders vying for the opportunity are renowned firms such as RITES Limited, Systra MVA Consulting, and Aarvee Associates, as revealed by sources familiar with the matter.

Officials from the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) have confirmed the active participation of these firms and emphasized the importance of selecting a suitable consultant through rigorous technical and financial evaluations. The decision to extend the metro network to Tumakuru comes on the heels of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's budgetary commitment to bolstering urban infrastructure and connectivity across Karnataka.

However, the proposal has not been without its share of skepticism, with concerns raised regarding the intended purpose of the metro expansion. Traditionally, metro systems are designed to cater to intra-city commuting needs, prompting questions about the feasibility and rationale behind extending the network to an inter-city destination like Tumakuru.

Home Minister G Parameshwara's advocacy for the metro extension to his hometown has sparked debates over prioritization and strategic planning, with some advocating for a comprehensive evaluation of alternatives, including the expansion of suburban rail networks. Proponents of the project argue that the feasibility study will provide valuable insights into the viability and potential benefits of extending the metro to Tumakuru, enabling informed decision-making by stakeholders.

Meanwhile, the BMRCL has also initiated efforts to assess the feasibility of additional metro projects, including a comprehensive network spanning 118 kilometers. These proposed stretches aim to address the evolving transportation needs of Bengaluru's burgeoning population and alleviate congestion on key routes such as Challaghatta-Bidadi, Silk Institute-Harohalli, Bommasandra-Attibele, and Kalena Agrahara (Gottigere) to Kadugodi via Jigani, Anekal, and Sarjapura.

Amidst these developments, the BMRCL has made significant progress in preparing the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Sarjapura Road-Hebbal metro line, encompassing 36 metro stations. Officials have indicated that the DPR is nearing completion and will be submitted to the state government once the election code of conduct concludes, underscoring the commitment to expediting critical infrastructure projects for the benefit of the public.

The active participation of consulting firms in the feasibility study for the Bangalore Metro extension to Tumakuru reflects a concerted effort to enhance urban mobility and address the evolving transportation needs of Bengaluru and its surrounding areas. While challenges and debates persist regarding the project's scope and viability, the forthcoming feasibility study will play a pivotal role in informing decision-makers and stakeholders about the potential benefits and considerations associated with extending the metro network.