Bengaluru – Tumakuru commute: Which is better? Suburban Rail or Metro? Here's comparison

In a comparative study posted by the Greater Bengaluru IT & Companies Association (GBICA), the Suburban Rail Project (BSRP) emerges as a significantly more efficient and cost-effective solution for the Bengaluru–Tumakuru corridor when compared to the proposed Metro rail.

Bengaluru To Tumakuru, Metro Vs Sub Urban Rail comparison pic.twitter.com/0gb0SmW1Uz

— Greater Bengaluru IT & Companies Association (@GBICA_)

Bengaluru To Tumakuru, Metro Vs Sub Urban Rail comparison pic.twitter.com/0gb0SmW1Uz

— Greater Bengaluru IT & Companies Association (R) (@GBICA_) May 26, 2025

">May 26, 2025

According to the GBICA chart, the BSRP, spanning 55 km, is expected to cost ₹4,500 crore and be completed in about two years. In contrast, the 52 km Metro would cost ₹15,600 crore and take nearly 4–5 years to build. The suburban rail also scores better on operational cost, with fares likely to be much lower than the estimated ₹200 for the Metro.

Also Read: Railway Minister: Namo Bharat trains to launch soon between Bengaluru and Tumakuru, Mysuru

BSRP also has a better alignment advantage, running close to NH and railway tracks, thus allowing for feeder services where needed. It offers relatively negligible traffic disruption during construction, unlike the Metro, which would cause massive disruption.

Speed-wise, BSRP is slightly faster, averaging 40 kmph compared to the Metro’s 35 kmph. Comfort and space are additional BSRP advantages, offering cushioned seating, potential luggage space, and the capacity to run 6 or 9-coach trains carrying up to 2,700 passengers.

With both services offering similar frequency and full air-conditioning, GBICA notes that the BSRP presents a more commuter-friendly, faster-to-deploy, and economical option for the growing Bengaluru–Tumakuru transit demand.