Detailed report finds double-decker metro corridor unlikely to ease Bengaluru’s traffic

A new feasibility analysis shows that the proposed 37-km double-decker corridor under Phase-3 of Namma Metro would bring only marginal relief to surface-level traffic, raising questions about its effectiveness.

A new analysis of the proposed 37-km double-decker flyover-cum-Metro corridor under Bengaluru’s Namma Metro Phase-3 has raised serious concerns about its ability to reduce traffic on major stretches. The Feasibility-cum-Detailed Project Report indicates that the elevated structure will not significantly improve conditions on existing surface roads, even after completion.

Traffic flow assessments from Kadabagere to Hosahalli and along the JP Nagar-Hebbal line reveal only marginal reductions in Passenger Car Units (PCUs) over the coming decades. Projections for the Kadabagere-Magadi Road section show PCUs dropping from 1,837 to 1,369 by 2031, and from 2,095 to 1,640 by 2041, a decline far too small to meaningfully ease congestion. Similar patterns were observed across other junctions within the corridor.

Also Read:India plans built-in ticket insurance allowing up to 80% refund on last-minute flight cancellations

The JP Nagar-Sarakki stretch displayed comparable results, with PCUs falling from 2,895 to 2,701 by 2031 and from 3,465 to 3,222 by 2041. This consistent trend across all five junctions indicates that the elevated corridor will not bring the expected relief to ground traffic.

A commuter survey conducted for the DPR further complicates the outlook. While 78% reported heavy congestion during morning peak hours and 48% during evening peaks, 91% of respondents were unwilling to pay tolls for improved road infrastructure. The findings imply that a tolled elevated road may attract very few users, failing to divert vehicles from surface roads.

Also Read:Bangalore Property Market 2025: Opportunities and Risks for Investors

Mobility specialists observing the study noted that such integrated structures offer little transport value when built across long corridors. If the elevated road remains tolled, it will not meaningfully reduce congestion. If toll-free, it risks drawing riders away from the Metro, undermining the system’s financial stability.

Urban traffic analysts point out that flyovers have repeatedly failed to address congestion in major cities globally. Bengaluru’s uneven traffic behaviour, with large spikes during peak hours, means that structural additions alone cannot solve the issue. Increasing the capacity and efficiency of public transport, especially during peak periods, is highlighted as a more sustainable approach.