Bengaluru Metro Rail Project: The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the third phase of the Bengaluru Metro Rail Project. This phase includes two elevated corridors of 44.65 km in length, which will have a total of 31 stations. The total project cost of Phase 3 is Rs 15,611 crore and it is planned to be completed by 2029.
Major corridors
- Corridor-1: Starting from Phase IV of JP Nagar, it will go along the Outer Ring Road West to Kempapura. The length of this corridor will be 32.15 km and it will have 21 stations.
- Corridor-2: It will extend from Hosahalli to Kadabagere along Magadi Road. It will have 9 stations and its length will be 12.50 km.
Benefits of the project
- Improved connectivity: Phase 3 will help connect parts of Bengaluru that were previously deprived of the metro network. It will improve overall connectivity by connecting key industrial and educational areas.
- Reduced traffic congestion: The expansion will reduce road traffic, leading to smoother vehicular movement, reduced travel time and improved road safety.
- Environmental benefits: The expansion of the metro rail project will reduce carbon emissions from conventional fossil fuel-based transport.
- Economic growth: Improved connectivity will lead to increased productivity and the creation of new employment opportunities. It can encourage new businesses, especially in areas near metro stations.
- Social impact: The expansion of the metro network will make public transport more equitable, benefiting different socio-economic groups and reducing transport inequalities.
Multi-modal integration and last-mile connectivity
Multi-modal integration is planned in Phase 3, which will facilitate interchange with existing and under-construction metro stations, BMTC bus stands, Indian Railways stations, and proposed suburban stations. In addition, bus bays, pick up and drop off bays, pedestrian paths, and bike/cycle sharing facilities will also be provided at the stations.