Karnataka government unveils ambitious metro expansion plans

The Karnataka government has made a significant announcement regarding the construction of a new metro line between Hebbal and Sarjapur. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah revealed this plan during his budget speech. The proposed metro line is expected to cover approximately 37 km and is estimated to cost around Rs 150 billion. To bring this ambitious project to fruition, the state government intends to submit a proposal to seek approval from the union government.The budget announcement also outlined additional metro expansion plans for the current fiscal year, which involve adding 100 km of new metro lines. These expansion initiatives include extending the existing lines from Baiyyappanahalli to Krishnarajapura, Kengeri to Challaghatta, Nagasandra to Madawara, and RV Road to Bommasandra. By the end of 2024, a total of 27 km of new metro lines will be completed. The government has envisioned significant growth in the metro network over the next three years, with the coverage expanding from the current 70 km to an impressive 176 km, more than 2.5 times its existing extent.In line with these expansion plans, a detailed project report (DPR) for the proposed metro phase three has already been submitted to the Union government for approval. This transformative project is estimated to cost Rs 163.28 billion and will span a distance of 45 km, connecting Kempapura to JP Nagar fourth phase and Hosahalli to Kadabagere, including the Western Outer Ring Road line.The budget announcement also highlighted the ongoing construction works in the city, including the Namma Metro and Bengaluru Suburban Railway Project. The total cost for these projects is estimated to be Rs 300 billion.