Two new Namma Metro lines to further ease commuter problems this year

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: As 2025 approaches, Bengaluru’s daily commutes might see a glimmer of relief, with Namma Metro poised to extend its reach further towards the city’s outskirts. The long-anticipated Yellow Line is awaiting rolling stock, while the elevated section of the Pink Line is nearing completion. Together, these developments are set to bolster public transport options in a city increasingly overwhelmed by private vehicles, particularly four-wheelers.

Spanning 18.81 kilometres, the Yellow Line, which connects Bommasandra to RV Road, is nearly ready for operations. Safety inspections and civil works have been completed, but the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) is awaiting rolling stock from Kolkata-based Titagarh Rail Systems. The delay in acquiring these coaches has stalled the line’s commissioning, which would significantly ease the commute for those travelling between the IT hub of Electronics City and other parts of the city. Key stations along this route include Bommanahalli, Electronics City, Kalena Agrahara and BTM Layout. The first six-coach train is expected to arrive at the Hebbagodi depot on 15 January, equipped with a Communication-Based Train Control system to facilitate efficient signalling.

While there was speculation that the BMRCL might open the Yellow Line with just one train operating at 30-minute intervals, concerns were raised that the high footfall would render such an arrangement inadequate. Consequently, a full-scale launch is anticipated later in the year. Meanwhile, the elevated section of the 21.26-kilometre Pink Line, stretching from Kalena Agrahara to Tavarekere (Swagath Cross), is also expected to bring relief to commuters.

This line is projected to reduce congestion along Bannerghatta Road, which links the city to vital areas in South Bengaluru, such as JP Nagar. Work on the 7.5-kilometre elevated section is progressing swiftly, with 85 per cent of construction completed, according to BMRCL’s latest newsletter. Rolling stock from BEML Limited is ready to be deployed to prominent stations like IIM Bengaluru.