Bengaluru Namma Metro: BMRCL Submits Feasibility Report for Tumakuru Extension

The Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has submitted the feasibility report for extending Namma Metro services to Tumakuru. This ambitious project aims to provide convenience to thousands of commuters by connecting Bengaluru and Tumakuru. The report has been submitted to the state government, and the Detailed Project Report (DPR) will be sent to the central government after receiving approval from the state cabinet. The project is likely to be built under a public-private partnership (PPP) model. Earlier, BMRCL had outlined that the metro line will pass through several key elevated stations, including Nelamangala, Weaver’s Colony, Budihal, T Begur, Sompura Industrial Area, Dobbspet, Kyathsandra, Tumakuru bus stand, TUDA Layout, and Sira Gate, ultimately connecting to Madavara, the last station on the Green Line. Apart from providing convenience to regular commuters, the metro line is expected to benefit IT employees residing in these areas by significantly reducing travel time and traffic congestion. However, Bengaluru Central MP PC Mohan has expressed concerns that the project primarily benefits real estate businesses. In a post on X, he stated, “Suburban rail to Tumakuru costs Rs 100-Rs150 cr/km; metro costs Rs 350Cr/km. Real estate gains: Rs 1,000 Cr. Metro to Tumakuru, Hosur, Hoskote or Bidadi isn’t about connectivity, it’s just about boosting real estate prices. State govt will build nothing but derail suburban rail (sic).” Despite these concerns, the construction work for the project is expected to begin once it receives approval from the central government. The metro line is expected to provide significant convenience to thousands of commuters, as it will be the first metro line to connect Bengaluru with another district. Additionally, BMRCL clarified that the partial operation on the yellow line is expected to begin in June. The extension of Namma Metro to Tumakuru is a significant step in enhancing the public transportation infrastructure of the region, aiming to improve connectivity and reduce travel time for a large number of commuters. While the project faces some criticism, its potential benefits in terms of reduced traffic congestion and improved quality of life for residents cannot be overlooked.