Namma Metro's Green Line Extension From Nagasandra To Madavara Set For July Launch

The 3.7-kilometer extension of the Namma metro Green Line of the Bengaluru Metro from Nagasandra to Madavara is expected to commence commercial operations by the end of July. This milestone marks the culmination of a five-year delay for this small but crucial stretch.

The extension includes three stations: Manjunath Nagar, Chikkabidarakallu (formerly Jindal Nagar), and Madavara (BIEC), and cost Rs 298 crore. Originally planned for opening in August 2019, the project faced several challenges. BMRCL has also constructed approximately 3 kilometers of roads to provide access to Anchepalya village and its surroundings.

The opening of this stretch will greatly benefit the thousands of visitors to the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre. Residents of Madanayakanahalli, Makali villages, and Nelamangala commuting to Bengaluru will also find it more convenient, as the end station will be just 6 kilometers away.

M Maheshwar Rao, Managing Director of BMRCL, stated, "Track works have been completed, and we are now in the testing phase, with plans to commence operations by July-end."

An official from BMRCL noted that work such as painting, laying of granite stones, and system works (electrical and signaling) are yet to be completed. "We aim to finish these tasks by June, following which trial runs and inspections by the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety will be conducted, with the line expected to open by the end of July," the official explained. He added, "The introduction of new coaches will not pose any issues, as the current Green Line trains will need to serve three additional stations."

The project has faced numerous challenges since its inception. "The most recent challenge has been a shortage of labor since March, with workers leaving for various parts of the state for Holi, then Ramzan, and now for voting in the elections. The architectural work would have been completed by now if they had remained," the official lamented.

Past challenges included contractor Simplex Infrastructure not receiving raw materials to carry out the work, resulting in the cancellation of the contract, as well as issues related to the pandemic and Nandi Infrastructure Corridor Enterprises not permitting access for the viaduct to pass over NICE Road, which was eventually resolved by paying Rs 67.65 lakh.