Bengaluru Metro plans cargo services to boost revenue

Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation is planning to start cargo transport services to increase its revenue. This initiative will involve partnerships with logistics companies. The Bangalore Metro aims to go beyond just transporting passengers. It is exploring new ways to earn money without relying solely on ticket sales. The Managing Director of BMRCL, M Maheshwar Rao, mentioned that they will create a detailed plan after discussions with industry partners. Byappanahalli is expected to be the main hub for this new cargo service. The metro system's efficiency could help improve urban logistics in the city. Rao noted that this collaboration would benefit both the metro and logistics firms. The metro is known for being one of the fastest transport options in Bengaluru. In addition, BMRCL plans to meet with private logistics providers to finalize how the project will be executed. This cargo initiative is part of a larger effort to enhance last-mile connectivity, reduce traffic congestion, and cut down on pollution in Bengaluru. Following ideas from Delhi Metro, Bengaluru is considering using the last car of some trains for cargo during non-peak hours. This would allow them to carry goods without disrupting passenger services. Besides cargo transport, the metro is also looking for other ways to generate income. These include advertising inside the trains and stations, retail spaces, and semi-naming rights for stations. BMRCL has already begun plans for advertising on select metro trains, and they have invited tenders for co-branding rights at various stations. These efforts aim to improve the financial health of the metro and enhance its role in the city's transportation system.