The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) is set to invite tenders for the construction of the 28.4-km Namma Metro Phase 3 corridor connecting JP Nagar 4th Phase to Kempapura in Hebbal, marking a major step forward in the long-awaited project.

The Central Government approved the route nearly a year ago, tendering was delayed owing to the complex design of the double-decker viaduct — a structure that combines a metro track and flyover within the same framework. With the detailed design now complete, BMRCL is preparing to initiate the construction process.

Phase 3 will feature India’s first integrated double-decker metro corridor, spanning 37.12 kilometres. This includes the 28.4-km JP Nagar–Kempapura route and an 8.6-km elevated section from Hosahalli (Magadi Road) to Kadabagere. The Rs 97 billion project received State Cabinet approval in September.

Funding will be shared among multiple stakeholders — the State Government will provide 50 per cent, the Centre 10 per cent, and the remaining 40 per cent will come through external loans. The total estimated cost of Phase 3 stands at Rs 156.11 billion.

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has sanctioned a Rs 75.77 billion loan for Phase 3, including funds for rolling stock procurement.

Currently, Namma Metro operates across 97 kilometres, serving nearly  1 million passengers daily — making it India’s second-largest metro system after Delhi.

The upcoming Phase 3A (Blue Line) will connect Sarjapur to Hebbal over 36.59 kilometres, with 28 stations (11 underground and 17 elevated). The corridor is expected to significantly ease congestion on major city roads and improve connectivity between residential zones and IT hubs.