CM reviews Namma Metro projects with BMRCL

In his first review of Namma Metro projects, Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa, on Friday, directed the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation (BMRCL) to ensure that commencement of commercial operations from Yelachenahalli to Anjanapura and Mysuru Road station to Kengeri are not delayed. After missing several deadlines, the BMRCL had announced that the lines would be operational by the second half of 2020.

Ajay Seth, Managing Director, BMRCL, told The Hindu that the Chief Minister reviewed the ongoing Phase 2 projects. “The BMRCL has already set November 2020 as the deadline to open the extended lines on Kanakapura Road and Mysuru Road. The CM has also instructed the BMRCL to put an effort to advance the deadline," he said.

The Chief Minister also directed the BMRCL to complete the tender process for the line on ORR (from Silk Board to K.R. Puram) and K.R. Puram to Kempegowda International Airport. The two lines have a total length of 55 km and are estimated to cost ₹16,500 crore.

Mr. Yediyurappa instructed BMRCL to prioritise the safety of passengers. In the past, there have been several instances of commuters sustaining injuries at stations. Early this year, a toddler died after slipping from her grandfather’s arms and falling down the side of an escalator at Srirampura station. At the time, it was alleged that the girl’s life would have been saved had BMRCL provided a safety net.

Other issues pertaining to Namma Metro that were addressed included the introduction of a common mobility card for metro trains and city buses, electric charging points at stations and a more robust last-mile connectivity.