Namma Metro Phase 2: On Track but Trails in Turbulence

Bengaluru’s much-anticipated Namma Metro Phase 2, which spans over 75 km, is grappling with delays caused by land acquisition disputes, lack of trainsets, and red tape on clearances. Originally set for completion by 2020, the project is now running years behind schedule. Only about 41 km might be ready by the end of 2025.

Key Challenges in Metro Progress

• Land acquisition issues and legal disputes slowing construction

• Shortage of new trainsets, especially for Yellow Line

• Delay in tree-cutting permissions affecting station development

• Civil work done, but system testing, certification, and trial runs pending

Yellow Line (RV Road – Bommasandra | 19.15 km)

• Civil work is completed but only 2 of the 15 required trainsets have arrived.

• Due to limited trains, only partial operations may begin with long gaps between services.

• Expected completion is now August 2025, instead of mid-2024.

• RV Road to Central Silk Board segment likely to open first.

Pink Line (Kalena Agrahara – Nagawara | 21.25 km)

• Underground civil works are 95–100% complete, but track-laying and system integration are still underway.

• Stations like Dairy Circle and Shivajinagar are mostly ready, but trial runs are far off.

• Projected phased opening between late 2025 and mid-2026.

Blue Line (Silk Board – Kempegowda International Airport | 58 km)

• Longest metro line, key for airport connectivity.

• Civil structure progressing but station work and system setup lagging.

• Original deadline was June 2026, but realistic operational launch is now 2027.

• Corridor is crucial for reducing airport-bound traffic.

Rising Costs & Urban Impact

• Budget escalated from ₹26,405 crore to ₹40,614 crore.

• Government recently approved ₹9,729 crore additional funding.

• Metro delays increase dependency on personal vehicles and traffic congestion.

• 12 million vehicles now ply in Bengaluru, up from 7.7 million in 2016.

Experts & Public Frustration

• Urban planners highlight that civil completion doesn’t ensure operation readiness.

• Mohandas Pai has publicly criticized BMRCL for inefficiency and lack of urgency.

• Citizens demand transparency and fixed timelines for completion.

The dream of seamless metro travel across Bengaluru remains stuck in legal and logistical limbo. Without swift intervention on train procurement, system integration, and regulatory approvals, Bengaluru’s Metro Phase 2 may not be fully operational before 2027. Citizens hope for faster updates, better coordination, and a stronger push from authorities.