BMRCL plans Namma Metro extension in Bangalore area

Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) is working on a feasibility study to extend the Namma Metro network by 197 kilometers. The study is expected to be completed by July 2025 and will be submitted to the Karnataka government. The proposed extensions include eight corridors, with one significant expansion being the Airport Line toward Devanahalli. This was announced by Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in the recent state budget. Other expansions would connect Harohalli, Bidadi, and Tumakuru. Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar supports extending the metro to Bidadi and Kanakapura, citing potential industrial growth. Home Minister G. Parameshwara is advocating for the line to Tumakuru. However, some BJP leaders argue that the metro should remain within city limits to manage costs, suggesting that other rail options could serve outlying areas. The feasibility study covers several routes. These include a 15-kilometer line from Challaghatta to Bidadi, a 24-kilometer stretch from Silk Institute to Harohalli, and a 68-kilometer corridor connecting various points in the city. Other proposed links include one from Bommasandra to Attibele and from K.R. Puram to Hoskote. If approved, these expansions would bring Bengaluru's metro network to almost 350 kilometers in total. BMRCL officials noted that the study will assess traffic flow, station locations, costs, and sustainability. After the study submission, the government will review the routes to decide which ones will move forward for detailed planning and construction.