In a bid to further enhance urban mobility in Bengaluru, grappling with chronic traffic woes, the State government has given the nod to Phase Three of Namma Metro. This ambitious plan entails extending the network by 44.65 km by 2028 at an estimated cost of Rs 156.11 billion. The proposed new lines will link Hebbal with JP Nagar via Goruguntepalya, Magadi Road, Mysuru Road, and Kanakapura Road along the Outer Ring Road, covering a distance of 32.15 km. Additionally, another line connecting Hosahalli and Kadabugere via Magadi Road, spanning 12.5 km, has also been approved. Anticipating a significant improvement in overall ridership once Phase Three becomes operational and connectivity expands, officials are gearing up to commence work soon. Mr Gowda, a government spokesperson, emphasised the necessity of these additional corridors to alleviate traffic congestion. He noted that while Phase Two-A and Phase 2 Two-B are slated for completion within two years, the groundwork for Phase 3 will kick off shortly. Once Phase Three wraps up, the Outer Ring Road line will be fully operational, complementing the ongoing progress from JP Nagar to the Silk Board junction under Phase Two. Regarding funding, it's anticipated that around 80% - 85% of the Phase Three expenses will be covered by the State Government, with hopes that the Centre will pitch in for the rest. Feasibility surveys have been conducted, and the Centre has blessed Phase Three. In addition to metro expansions, the Cabinet also greenlit the establishment of a tree park on NGEF land spanning approximately 65 acres at a cost of Rs 110 million. This initiative aims to provide much-needed green space to East Bengaluru, which lacks sizable parks. Furthermore, the Cabinet approved the installation of a statue of goddess Bhuvaneshwari, symbolising Karnataka's land, language, and culture, at an estimated cost of Rs 230 million. As per Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda, details regarding the statue's height and construction materials are yet to be finalised. ?