Karnataka Govt seeks Center's approval for Bangalore Metro Phase 3 Project

Bengaluru, India (Metro Rail Today): Addressing the burgeoning transportation needs of Bengaluru, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has made a formal request to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the approval of the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the third phase of the Bengaluru Metro Rail project. The proposed phase-3 is slated to span an extensive 45 kilometers and is estimated to cost approximately Rs 15,611 crore. Siddaramaiah conveyed this pivotal development during the virtual inauguration of the KR Puram to Byappanahalli and Kengeri to Challaghatta stretches of the Bengaluru Metro Rail, which was virtually inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi.

Highlighting the projected expansion, Siddaramaiah emphasized the imminent completion of the 21.26-kilometer line connecting Kalena Agrahara to Nagawara by March 2025. The successful execution of these plans is expected to amplify the operational network to 117 kilometers, catering to an anticipated daily ridership of 12 lakhs.

Expressing satisfaction with the progress of the ongoing initiatives, Siddaramaiah underscored the Karnataka government's commitment to the efficient execution of phase-2 of the project. With a release of Rs 11,583.8 crore, the state has witnessed the completion and commissioning of 32 kilometers of the metro line, including the recently opened sections. As the operational metro network expands to 74 kilometers, the focus remains steadfast on augmenting the city's public transportation infrastructure.

Providing insights into the comprehensive scope of the project, Siddaramaiah shed light on the ambitious 58-kilometer long Phase 2A and 2B undertaking, known as the ORR-Airport metro line. This project, estimated to cost Rs 14,788.10 crore, is scheduled for completion by 2026. To facilitate the seamless execution of these plans, the government of Karnataka has already disbursed Rs 4,775.36 crore.

Furthermore, Siddaramaiah underscored the significance of the Comprehensive Mobility Plan (CMP), which has paved the way for the construction of 317 kilometers of metro lines by 2031. Of this expansive plan, 257 kilometers are in various stages of operation, construction, and planning. Emphasizing the city's pivotal role as the IT capital of the country, Siddaramaiah underscored the significance of the metro rail system in enhancing Bengaluru's transportation infrastructure.

Concluding his address, Siddaramaiah expressed pride in Bengaluru's status as the first city in South India to successfully establish a metro rail system. With a joint effort between the Centre and the state government, the recent inauguration of the Krishnarajapura to Baiyappanahalli and Kengeri to Challaghatta stretches has seamlessly connected the city from East to West, fortifying the city's public transportation network and facilitating the daily commute of over 7 lakh individuals.

As the metro project progresses towards completion, with various lines nearing operational readiness, the seamless integration of the metro network is expected to revolutionize Bengaluru's transportation landscape, catering to the needs of its ever-expanding populace.