The Union Urban Development Department has approved the Namma Metro Phase 3A project, which will connect Hebbal to Sarjapur, covering a 37-kilometre stretch. The project aims to enhance connectivity between the northern and southern parts of Bengaluru, easing traffic congestion in the process. The next step involves the Union Cabinet’s approval, with the finance department currently reviewing the Detailed Project Report (DPR) to finalise funding. Initially estimated at Rs 165 billion in 2022-23, the project’s cost has now increased to Rs 270 billion based on the DPR. Metro officials highlighted that this approval marks a major milestone, as it is the first central-level clearance for Phase 3A, further building on the Phase 3 project approved by the Union Cabinet last August. In June 2023, the Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation (BMRCL) submitted the DPR to the state government, which then forwarded it to the central government for clearance. The new route will include both elevated and underground sections, featuring 28 stations. The elevated section will run from Sarjapur to Koramangala 3rd Block, with 15 stations, while the underground segment will connect Koramangala 3rd Block to the Veterinary College, with 11 stations. Additional elevated stations will be located at Gangannagar and Hebbal. The approved stations include Sarjapur, Kada Agrahara Road, Dommasandra, Carmelram, Bellandur Gate, Koramangala 3rd Block, Dairy Circle, Town Hall, Basaveshwara Circle, Mehkri Circle, and Hebbal, among others. A depot will also be constructed at Sarjapur to support operations. BMRCL has further proposed building a sports and cultural complex above the Shivajinagar Metro station, modeled after international metro stations. This initiative is part of the 21-km Pink Line between Nagawara and Kalena Agrahara, with most of the construction nearing completion. Officials plan to use the 2.5-acre space above Shivajinagar station for indoor sports facilities, including cricket, football, basketball, and swimming, along with an auditorium for cultural events. BMRCL and BBMP are collaborating on the project, with funding discussions underway. (ET)