Banglore Metro, also referred to as Namma Metro, translates as “Our Own Metro” in Kannada, Banglore (the Silicon Valley of India). The Indian capital of technology, Banglore, is traversed by the Namma metro.
Namma Metro, officially known as Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL), is a special-purpose vehicle charged with carrying out the Bangalore Metro Rail Project. It is a joint venture between the governments of Karnataka and India.
Bangalore, often hailed as the Silicon Valley of India, has experienced exponential growth in population and economic activities over the past few decades. With this rapid urbanization came the need for efficient and sustainable transportation solutions. The Bangalore Metro, a modern and ambitious mass rapid transit system, emerged as a beacon of progress in addressing the city’s transportation demands.
As of October 2023, the Banglore Metro or Namma Metro, also recognized as the Bangalore Metro, boasts a robust network with 66 operational metro stations. Covering a sprawling expanse of 42.3 km, the system features a total of 51 stations, with 57 stations elevated, 8 stations underground, and 1 station at grade.
Banglore Metro Details
Ownership: (BMRCL) Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Ltd
Alternate Name: Namma Metro (Means Our Metro)
Service Area: Bangalore (Silicon Valley)
Lines and Interchange: Purple Line & Green Line, 2 (interchange at Majestic)
Headquarters Location: BMTC Complex, Shanthinagar
Commencement of Operations: Initiated in 2011
Bangalore Metro or Namma Metro: Timings
Monday to Friday: The Banglore metro service starts at 5 AM and runs until 11 PM. This long duration serves a variety of passenger needs when traveling during regular weekdays.
Second and fourth Saturdays, as well as public holidays: The Bangalore Metro is open from 6 AM to 10:30 PM on these particular Saturdays and holidays. This revised timetable offers accessibility and flexibility on weekends and special events.
Sundays: The Banglore metro is open from 7 AM to 11 PM on Sundays, giving users the convenience of dependable public transportation to arrange their days.
First, third, and fifth Saturdays: The Bangalore Metro operates from 5 AM to 11 PM on the first, third, and fifth Saturdays of each month, offering reliable connection on these days.
Bangalore Metro | Namma Metro Lines
Banglore Metro | Namma Mtero Operational Lines in Phase 1 and Phase 2
Purple Line: It begins at Challaghatta station and ends at Whitefield Station (Kadugodi), covering a distance of 42 km between the 37 stations.
Green Line: It begins at Nagasandra station and ends at Silk Institute, covering a total of 30 kilometers between the 29 stops.
Under Construction
Yellow Line: It will begin at Rashtreeya Vidyalaya Road to Bommasadra, covering a total of 18km between 16 stations and will connect to Hosur.
Blue line: It will begin at Kasturi Nagar and end at Banglore airport, covering a total of 58km between 30 stations.
Pink Line: It will begin at Nagawara and end at Gottigerre station, it will cover 18 stations in the route.
Orange Line: Phase 3 of the Bangalore metro line map will see the development of this line. Phase 2A and Phase 3A lines will be connected at a single station. By 2028 or 2029, this new line in Bangalore should be operational.
Banglore Metro | Namma Metro Upcoming Projects
The transformative Namma Metro project, overseen by the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL), is currently undergoing an expansive phase of growth. Phase 1 of the Bengaluru Metro, along with partial completion of Phase 2, is already operational, with the remaining segments anticipated to be functional by 2025.
In a forward-looking move, the Karnataka Government has granted approval for the construction of Phase 3, a substantial expansion covering 45 kilometers. The estimated project cost, pegged at Rs 16,000 crore, reflects the commitment to enhancing Bangalore’s metro network, with a projected completion date set for 2028.
Banglore Metro | Namma Metro Funding and Revenue
The State-run REC Limited has played a crucial role in fueling the project’s progress by extending financial assistance of ₹3,045 crore to the BMRCL. This infusion of funds has been dedicated to the establishment and development of metro lines under the ambitious phase-II project of Namma Metro.
Revenue Milestones:
In a significant achievement, the Bangalore Metro has transitioned into a profitable venture since its operational debut in 2011. The fiscal year 2022-23 marked a watershed moment as BMRCL reported a profitable margin, setting the stage for an anticipated profit of Rs 100 crore in the subsequent year.
During the fiscal year 2022-23, BMRCL demonstrated financial resilience, earning an estimated Rs 594.02 crore. Despite maintenance expenditures accounting for Rs 486.61 crore, the Namma Metro recorded a commendable profit of Rs 40 crore after factoring in all associated costs.
Banglore Metro | Namma Metro Lesser-Known Facts:
Beyond its operational and financial successes, the Bangalore Metro boasts several lesser-known yet noteworthy features:
As an Indian, it proudly stands as the first metro in southern India with an underground section.
The system prioritizes sustainability by harvesting rainwater at multiple locations along its two lines, treating it, and supplying it as potable water.
The metro system operates on a 1435 mm standard gauge track, showcasing its alignment with global standards.
As the Bangalore Metro project continues to shape the city’s urban landscape, these details underscore its commitment to efficiency, sustainability, and innovation in the realm of public transportation.
Banglore Metro | Namma Metro FAQ
1. What is Namma Metro, and when did it commence operations in Bangalore?
Namma Metro, also known as Bangalore Metro, is a rapid transit system that began operations in Bangalore in 2011 with the inauguration of Phase 1.
2. How many phases are there in the Bangalore Metro project?
The Bangalore Metro project consists of multiple phases. Phase 1 is operational, while Phase 2 is partially complete, and further expansions are planned for Phase 3.
3. What is the current operational length of the Bangalore Metro?
As of now, the operational length of the Bangalore Metro network is extensive, covering multiple corridors and totaling over 70 kilometers.
4. How many lines does the Bangalore Metro have, and what are their names?
The metro system comprises multiple lines. As of now, notable lines include the Purple Line (Line-1) and the Green Line (Line-2), connecting various parts of the city.
5. When is Phase 2 of the Bangalore Metro expected to be fully operational?
Phase 2 of the Bangalore Metro is expected to be fully operational by 2025, providing enhanced connectivity to additional areas of the city.
6. Is possessing a Metro Card mandatory for traveling in Bangalore?
While a metro card is not compulsory, it is a convenient and efficient way to pay for metro rides. Travelers can also use tokens for single journeys.
7. Are passengers allowed to carry alcohol on the Bangalore Metro?
No, carrying alcohol is not allowed on the Bangalore Metro. The metro system has regulations prohibiting the transportation of alcoholic beverages.
8. What items are restricted or prohibited within the Bangalore Metro premises?
Items not allowed in the Bangalore Metro include flammable materials, sharp objects, and other prohibited items listed in the metro’s guidelines. Security checks are conducted at stations.
9. What is the minimum fare for the Bangalore Metro?
The minimum fare for the Bangalore Metro ranges from 10 Rs to a maximum of 50 Rs.
10. What are the operational hours of the Bangalore Metro?
The Bangalore Metro operates during varying hours throughout the week. Generally, on weekdays and Saturdays, it runs from 5 AM to 11 PM, with adjusted timings on Sundays and specific Saturdays.