Blue Line Metro trial run in October, full operations by 2027: Minister Byre Gowda
- Trial runs for the Blue Line are scheduled for October this year.
- Full commercial operations are targeted for 2027.
- Minister Byre Gowda issued the directive to BMRCL to ensure strict adherence to the deadline.
Minister sets October deadline for Metro Blue Line trials
Karnataka’s Transport Minister, Krishna Byre Gowda, has directed the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) to begin trial runs on the much-anticipated Blue Line by October this year. The directive came during a review meeting held earlier this week, where the minister stressed the need for speed and precision in execution.
The Blue Line, a critical east-west corridor, is expected to ease congestion in some of Bengaluru’s busiest areas. Once operational, it will connect key hubs and provide a vital alternative to road travel.
Full commercial operations targeted for 2027
Byre Gowda has set a clear target: full commercial operations must commence by 2027. This timeline, he said, is non-negotiable. The minister urged officials to resolve all pending land acquisition and utility diversion issues without delay.
BMRCL officials confirmed that civil work on several stretches of the Blue Line is nearing completion. The remaining work, including track laying and signal installation, is expected to be finished within the next few months.
What the Blue Line will cover
The Blue Line will span approximately 21 kilometres, running from K.R. Pura to Silk Institute. It will feature both elevated and underground sections, with a mix of new stations and interchange points connecting to the existing network.
Once fully operational, the line is expected to carry an additional 5-6 lakh passengers daily. This will significantly reduce the burden on the already congested roads along the Outer Ring Road and Bannerghatta Road corridors.
Challenges and next steps
Despite the optimism, challenges remain. BMRCL has faced delays in the past due to land acquisition hurdles and coordination with civic agencies. The minister’s directive is seen as a push to overcome these bottlenecks.
Officials have been asked to submit a detailed progress report within two weeks. They will also conduct a safety audit of the trial run route before October.
With the trial run deadline set, all eyes are now on BMRCL’s ability to deliver on this ambitious timeline. The next few months will be crucial in determining whether Bengaluru’s Blue Line can become a reality by 2027.