Namma Metro Phase 3: Finance Department Gives Go-Ahead for Pre-Construction Activities

After months of delay, the finance department has given its approval for the preliminary work on Namma Metro Phase 3. The Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) is now set to commence land acquisition and the relocation of utilities for the ambitious 44-kilometer project, consisting of two lines, as reported by a private news agency. Although the detailed planning report (DPR) for Phase 3 received the green light in November 2022, the state government's consent to initiate pre-construction activities has been pending.

The project requires approval from the Centre, a process that can be time-consuming. BMRCL has once again reached out to the government, seeking specific approval to initiate preliminary work before the project overcomes all statutory obstacles. Sources within BMRCL indicated that the finance department has inquired whether there have been any previous instances of approvals for pre-construction activities before receiving the Centre's approval. In response, Namma Metro cited examples from Phase 2A (Silk Board-KR Pura) and Phase 2B (KR Pura-Airport), where such approvals were granted earlier.

It is understood that the finance department has recommended approval to commence preliminary work based on BMRCL's request, and the file is presently awaiting clearance from the Chief Minister's Office (CMO). According to the document, BMRCL typically takes over two years to complete critical tasks such as land acquisition, utility relocation, and tree felling approvals. These activities can be initiated even before the project formally secures approval from the Centre. With the approval of both state and central governments, BMRCL will be able to issue tenders for civil work and initiate foundational activities without unnecessary delays.

Regarding the revised DPR, sources within BMRCL have disclosed that the corporation physically submitted the updated DPR for Phase III to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs on November 1. According to the revised DPR, the 12.5-kilometer Magadi Road line will initially feature three-car trains, with provisions for future expansion to accommodate six-coach trains at nine stations. The western section of ORR (JP Nagar to Hebbal) will launch with six-car coaches from the start of commercial operations.