Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited has outlined plans to install 500 lifts and 1,000 escalators as part of a 78 kilometre expansion intended to nearly double the existing network from 96 kilometres to 175 kilometres within the next two years, and to increase the number of stations from 83 to 127. The announcement was made at the second Smart Lift and Mobility World 2026 summit and follows mounting concerns about overcrowding at major interchange stations such as Majestic. The infrastructure additions are intended to ease passenger movement and to complement train operations across an enlarged system.

BMRCL research and development leadership indicated that the requirement for lifts, travelators and related mobility systems will rise in line with network growth, with particular emphasis on major hubs where seamless interchange is critical. Procurement planning has therefore been reoriented to secure large volumes and to incorporate maintenance arrangements for sustained reliability. The authority has bundled supply and service contracts to cover up to a decade to ensure consistent upkeep.

The procurement strategy prioritises local manufacture, reflecting federal norms that mandate at least 60 per cent local content for new infrastructure projects, and aims to reduce dependence on imports to secure cost competitiveness over successive phases of procurement. Officials noted that the scale of Phase Two and Phase Three acquisitions makes localisation essential for long term affordability and supply chain resilience. Suppliers will be expected to meet performance standards while partnering on maintenance commitments.

Communications sector representatives observed that daily ridership touching one million (mn) has elevated mobility systems from optional amenities to core elements of the commuter experience, and that improved vertical and horizontal circulation will be central to accessibility goals. A regulator participating at the summit discussed steps to align real estate development with transport planning to create a future ready urban ecosystem. The expansion is presented as a combined operational and passenger experience initiative to manage growing demand across Bengaluru.