Deputy Chief Minister’s Announcement
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar confirmed on Thursday that Reach 6 of Phase 2 of the Namma Metro in Bengaluru is on track to be completed by 2025. This announcement came during a significant event for the metro project, highlighting the continued progress and ambitious goals for Bengaluru’s public transportation infrastructure.
Project Progress Update
During a media briefing held after the groundbreaking ceremony at K G Halli station, Shivakumar elaborated on the current status and future projections of the metro expansion. “The development of Phase 2 Reach 6 is advancing as planned, and we are confident that this section will be operational by 2025,” he said.
- Tunnel Details: The tunnel segment planned for this route stretches 13.76 kilometers, with the area between Dairy Circle and Nagavara featuring a total of 12 stations. The full route, extending from Kalena Agrahara to Nagavara, covers a distance of 21.26 kilometers. This expansion is a critical part of the city’s efforts to enhance urban mobility and reduce traffic congestion.
- Construction Status: Currently, nine tunnel drilling machines are in use, with seven nearing completion. Approximately 75% of the work on the 12 stations along this route has been completed. The construction efforts for this stretch are being managed by prominent companies including Afcons, L&T, and ITD. These firms are working diligently to ensure that the project adheres to high standards of quality and efficiency.
Major Interchange Stations
Shivakumar highlighted several major interchange stations that will be pivotal for commuters:
- Jayadeva Hospital: A key station facilitating access to one of Bengaluru’s major hospitals.
- MG Road: A central business district stop, expected to handle significant passenger traffic.
- Cantonment: A crucial junction for travelers in the area.
- Nagavara: The northern terminus of this phase, expected to be a major node in the network.
“The Namma Metro is designed to meet international standards, and in many aspects, it surpasses the Delhi Metro in quality. Our commitment to passenger comfort and convenience remains uncompromised throughout every stage of this project,” Shivakumar emphasized.
Future Plans and Developments
Shivakumar also touched on other significant future developments and infrastructure projects in Bengaluru:
- Tunnel Roads: Plans are underway to construct tunnel roads within the city. These will be designed to complement the metro system and address traffic issues. The Deputy Chief Minister expressed his intent to gain a comprehensive understanding of tunnel drilling techniques and the associated challenges, highlighting the importance of innovative solutions in urban planning.
- Airport Metro Line: Regarding the metro line to the airport, Shivakumar noted that construction is proceeding swiftly. “We have instructed the development of two levels where pillars are not yet installed—one dedicated to road traffic and the other for the Metro. This dual-level approach aims to optimize space and improve overall traffic flow,” he explained. The BBMP (Bengaluru Bruhat Mahanagara Palike) and BMRCL (Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited) are collaborating on this initiative. The BBMP will fund the construction of the flyover, while BMRCL will cover the costs of the Metro project. This joint effort is anticipated to significantly mitigate the frequent traffic congestion issues in Bengaluru. Shivakumar also mentioned that similar projects observed in Nagpur have provided valuable insights for this initiative.
The ambitious expansion of the Namma Metro continues to progress with promising developments. As Bengaluru prepares to embrace an enhanced metro network, these projects are set to transform the city’s transportation infrastructure, making it more efficient and convenient for its residents.