Namma Metro Green Line Extension From Nagasandra To Madavara On Track For September End Opening

The much-awaited 3.7-kilometer Green Line extension of Bengaluru Namma Metro from Nagasandra to Madavara is now expected to begin commercial operations by the end of September, according to multiple Metro sources. The latest deadline pushes the launch back by two months.

The Rs 298-crore project includes three stations: Manjunath Nagar, Chikkabidarakallu (Jindal Nagar), and Madavara (BIEC). While two stations have been completed, finishing works are still ongoing at Madavara.

System works, including electrical and signaling, need to begin and will take at least a month to be ready, said a senior official of Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL). The Third Rail that supplies power to operate the trains also needs to be prepared. Furthermore, tests need to be conducted and trial runs of the train must be done for at least 45 days before the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety can give clearance.

"We are expecting the trial runs to take place by mid-August, followed by the safety clearance," said the official. "It could take up to the end of September for the launch of operations."

The BMRCL Managing Director had previously assured that the launch would happen by July-end, but minor works at Madavara station will only be completed by June-end. Another official attributed the delay to parliamentary elections and workers leaving, which affected the pace of work.

This stretch has faced numerous challenges, including protests from Anchepalya villagers demanding a Metro station closer to their village, cancellation of contracts with Simplex Infrastructure and Nandi Infrastructure Corridor Enterprises not permitting access for the viaduct to pass over its NICE Road, and the pandemic.

Once operational, this line will greatly benefit public visiting the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre, which will have a station nearby. Residents of Nelamangala, Makali, and Madanayakanahalli, as well as those entering Bengaluru from Tumakuru, will have a direct connection to the city's center via the Madavara station.