Bengaluru’s Namma Metro Yellow Line has started trial runs for its fourth train. With operations expected soon, train frequency will improve from 25 to 18–20 minutes, easing crowding at busy stations and boosting daily ridership.
Bengaluru: Trial runs have commenced for the fourth train on Namma Metro’s Yellow Line, marking a significant step toward improving service for the city’s rapidly growing metro ridership. Operations are expected to begin in the first week of September, easing crowding at busy stations like RV Road and Electronic City. Currently, three trains operate at a 25-minute frequency, but with the addition of the fourth train, commuters can expect waiting times to decrease to 18–20 minutes, according to officials from Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (BMRCL).
Fourth Train Arrives From Kolkata
The six coaches of the fourth train were transported from Kolkata and arrived at the Hebbagodi Metro Depot on August 15. Assembly of the train has been completed, and testing of the CBTC signalling technology is underway. Nighttime trial runs are being conducted to ensure safety and operational efficiency before the train enters service.
Ridership Growth and Commuter Concerns
Since the opening of the Yellow Line, average daily metro ridership has increased from 800,000 to 915,000 passengers. Due to the limited number of trains, crowding occurs at several key stations, prompting commuter demands for additional trains. Another train from Titagarh Rail System in Kolkata is expected to arrive by the end of September, which will help increase service frequency. With the addition of two more trains, officials project ridership could exceed 1.1 million.
BMTC Bus Service To Support Metro Commuters
To complement metro services, BMTC will operate new bus routes from Bommasandra Metro Station to Anekal starting today. Buses from Bommasandra will depart daily at 8:55 am, 10:55 am, 12:50 pm, and 2:45 pm. Return trips from Anekal (MF 22D) will leave at 10:05 am, 12:05 pm, 2:00 pm, and 3:50 pm. The buses will pass through Bommasandra, Chandapura, Iggalur, Marasur Cross, Karpoora Gate, and Anekal.
Namma Metro Phase 3 Project Faces Delays
Phase 3 of Namma Metro, covering 44.65 km across two corridors from JP Nagar Vegacity Mall to Kadbagere, has been delayed. The state government plans to construct a double-decker flyover along the same route. BMRCL has not yet called for tenders, leading to a project deadline extension of six months. The project is now expected to be completed by May 2031, with an estimated cost increase of 5% due to construction delays.
Union Approval and Expansion Plans
The project, aimed at expanding Bengaluru’s metro network to 222.2 km, was initiated by the state government in November 2022 but received Union Cabinet approval on August 16, 2024. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently laid the foundation stone for the project. The total estimated cost is currently Rs 15,611 crore, and the metro expansion will further strengthen Bengaluru’s public transport infrastructure.