Bengaluru may start metro operations on partially ready stations: DyCM DK Shivakumar

To reduce long delays on major corridors, Bengaluru is considering launching Metro services on stretches where stations are already complete, instead of waiting for the entire route to be ready.

Bengaluru’s Metro network, currently facing extended construction timelines, may soon see a major change in strategy. According to official sources, the government is planning to start operations on stretches of the Blue Line where stations are already complete, instead of waiting for the entire 58 km corridor to be ready. This move aims to ease commuter inconvenience, especially for those waiting for the Pink and Blue Line launches.

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The decision follows a detailed inspection of the Airport Line by Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who reviewed ongoing work at Jakkur and Kodigehalli. During the visit, he questioned officials over repeated delays and instructed teams to finish construction within the scheduled timelines.

The 58 km Blue Line, which runs from Central Silk Board to KR Puram and then KR Puram to Kempegowda International Airport, includes 30 stations. While some stations are ready for use, several others are still under construction. Current timelines indicate that the KR Puram-Silk Board stretch is expected to open by December 2026, KR Puram-Hebbal by December 2027, and Hebbal-Airport by June 2027.

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Officials say that waiting for the entire corridor to be completed may lead to further delays, making partial commissioning a practical option. This approach, they believe, would provide early relief to commuters and help reduce traffic pressure on key routes.