Namma Metro Yellow Line Launch Pushed To 2025: What’s Causing The Delay?

Bengaluru's long-awaited Yellow Line Metro, connecting RV Road to Bommasandra, has been hit by yet another delay, pushing its launch to the second quarter of 2025. Despite construction finishing over a year ago and the arrival of a driverless train from China ten months back, the metro's inauguration remains elusive, leaving tech professionals in Electronic City disappointed.

The primary reason for the delay is the lack of adequate train bogie sets. A crucial set from Titagarh Rail Systems Limited in Kolkata is still awaited. Reports suggest that this bogie set will leave Kolkata in December and reach Bengaluru by the end of January 2025.

Currently, the first train, stationed at the Hebbagodi depot, has successfully cleared over 36 tests, including speed, braking, and signalling. However, full-scale commercial operations require at least one more train. The second train's six coaches are expected to arrive by road in January and will be assembled at the Hebbagodi depot. Meanwhile, the final train remains under construction, delaying its readiness further.

The Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) is gearing up for the operational launch of the Yellow Line. However, sources reveal that it could take up to three months to secure safety clearances from the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) after the arrival of the additional train.

In parallel, the metro fare revision committee, headed by retired Madras High Court Justice R. Dharani, is evaluating ticket pricing. Along with other members, retired Additional Chief Secretary E.V. Ramana Reddy and Urban Affairs official Satyendra Pal Singh, the committee recently visited Singapore and Hong Kong to study their metro fare systems.

Currently, Bengaluru Metro fares range from ₹10 to ₹60, with smart card users enjoying a 5% discount. Speculations indicate that fares could rise by 10-15%, based on the committee's recommendations, expected to be submitted soon.

Unlike the private metro systems of Singapore and Hong Kong, which employ annual automatic fare revision models, BMRCL officials believe this approach may not suit Indian operations. Instead, they are considering adopting elements of the Delhi Metro's fare structure.

The repeated delays, coupled with the possibility of fare hikes, have left commuters disheartened, particularly tech workers in the Electronic City region. Many hope the revised timeline will be met, bringing long-awaited relief to the area's congested traffic and frustrated daily commuters.