Bengaluru residents have a reason to rejoice as Prime Minister Narendra Modi formally inaugurated two critical extensions of the Namma Metro’s Purple Line. These extensions, from Baiyappanahalli to Krishnarajapuram and Kengeri to Challaghatta, commenced public services on October 9, 2023, significantly enhancing the city’s metro network.
With these new sections, the operational network of the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has expanded from 69.66 km to 73.81 km, serving commuters through 66 metro stations. This expansion is a crucial step in further developing the city’s public transportation infrastructure.
The operational schedule for the East-West Corridor now boasts swift headways, making it more convenient for passengers. During the morning peak hours, the journey from Whitefield (Kadugodi) to Patandur Agrahara takes just 10 minutes. Patandur Agrahara to Mysore Road is a brief 5-minute ride, while Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Station to MG Road can be completed in a mere 3 minutes. Travel from Mysore Road to Challaghatta is also efficient, taking just 10 minutes.
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The train services on both sections commence at 05:00 hours, ensuring that commuters can rely on early-morning metro transportation. The last train departing from Whitefield (Kadugodi) leaves at 22:45 hours, with the rest of the terminal stations concluding their services at 23:05 hours, offering flexibility and convenience to passengers.
These extensions are expected to have a significant impact on daily commuters. Previously, Namma Metro witnessed an average of 6.50 lakh passengers traveling from KR Puram to Byappanahalli and Kengeri to Challaghatta on weekdays. With the addition of these vital sections, this number is expected to increase to approximately 7.50 lakh passengers per day, ensuring a smoother and more efficient metro travel experience for the public.
It’s worth noting that the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) received approval from the Commissioner for Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) for the two new Purple Line extensions last month, ensuring their safety and compliance with regulations.
The significance of these new metro sections lies in the relief they bring to the people of Bengaluru. The extension from Byappanahalli to KR Puram is particularly crucial, offering uninterrupted metro services to Whitefield, a significant IT-BT hub in the city. This expansion will not only enhance connectivity but also improve the overall quality of life for Bengaluru residents, further solidifying the city’s position as a leader in public transportation in India.
