Bengaluru Metro faces delays, only one new stretch opened in 2024

Bengaluru’s Namma Metro saw minimal progress in 2024, with only one new stretch opening this year. The 3.14-kilometre extension of the Green Line from Nagasandra to Madavara (BIEC) began commercial operations on November 7, marking a small win for the city’s metro network. Initially planned for completion in 2017, the project was delayed by over seven years.

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The highly anticipated Yellow Line, connecting R.V. Road to Bommasandra, has faced yet another delay, now set to open in January 2025. Spanning 18.82 kilometres with 16 stations, the elevated corridor promises improved connectivity for southern Bengaluru, particularly in areas housing major firms like Infosys and Biocon. However, its progress has been hampered by rolling stock delays.

A prototype train set from China arrived at Hebbagodi depot in February 2024, undergoing rigorous testing. However, further delays in the delivery of train sets have pushed back the Yellow Line’s inauguration, initially expected by December 2024.

Contractor China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation (CRRC), awarded a ₹1,578-crore deal in 2019, struggled to meet commitments due to local manufacturing requirements. Following multiple warnings and potential penalties, CRRC partnered with Titagarh Wagons to expedite production.

In other developments, the Karnataka Cabinet approved Phase 3A of the Red Line, connecting Sarjapur to Hebbal, and the Pink Line’s first phase is expected to open by September 2025.

While these projects promise future improvements, Bengaluru Metro's progress at snail’s pace has raised concerns about timely completion.