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The Blue Line is designed to connect central Bengaluru with the Kempegowda International Airport, addressing one of the city’s long-standing transit gaps.
The focus of this expansion is not just to increase the length of the route, but to ensure that large residential and employment centers that are currently dependent on road transport get direct metro access. (Photo Credit: X)
As Bengaluru expands outward with new residential clusters, technology parks and industrial areas, the demand for reliable mass transit has intensified. In response, the city’s metro network is preparing for a major expansion that aims to significantly broaden connectivity across Bengaluru over the next 2 years. Officials now say the Namma Metro network is on track to reach a total length of about 175 km, which will almost double its current operational footprint.
The expansion is being led by Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited, which is overseeing the completion of several corridors currently under construction while planning the next phase of routes to connect key development areas of the city.
Current network and expansion goals
Currently, Namma Metro has an operational length of approximately 96 km, covering parts of North, South, East and Central Bengaluru through the Purple and Green lines. With several new corridors and extensions nearing completion, authorities aim to add about 79 km of new tracks, taking the total length of the network to about 175 km.
The focus of this expansion is not just to increase the length of the route, but to ensure that large residential and employment centers that are currently dependent on road transport get direct metro access.
Yellow Line to connect tech and residential hubs
One of the most awaited additions to the network is the Yellow Line, which will connect RV Road in south Bengaluru to Bommasandra in the south-east of the city. This corridor is expected to significantly benefit passengers traveling between areas such as Electronic City, Bommanahalli, Hossay Road and other IT and industrial areas along Hosur Road.
Officials have indicated that trial runs on parts of the Yellow Line are expected to begin in 2026, with phased commercial operations likely to begin after safety clearance is completed. Once operational, this line is expected to significantly reduce travel time between Electronic City and Central Bengaluru.
Pink Line to improve east-west connectivity
Another important corridor nearing completion is the Pink Line, which will run between Kalena Agrahara in the south and Nagawara in the north. This line is expected to connect densely populated areas like JP Nagar, Tavarekere, Dairy Circle, Cantonment area and parts of North Bengaluru.
The Pink Line includes underground sections passing through central Bengaluru, which has faced construction delays in the past. Authorities now say sections of the line are expected to be commissioned in phases, with the initial section likely to open in late 2026, depending on the completion of underground works.
Blue Line connecting the city to the airport corridor
The Blue Line is designed to connect central Bengaluru with the Kempegowda International Airport, addressing one of the city’s long-standing transit gaps. This corridor will serve areas like Hebbal, Yelahanka, Jakkur and parts of North Bengaluru before expanding towards the airport area.
Officials have said construction on this corridor is progressing in phases, with operations expected to begin in phases after 2026. Once operational, the line is expected to offer a reliable alternative to road travel for airport passengers, especially during peak traffic hours.
Magadi Road and Western Bengaluru Extension
The metro expansion also focuses on improving connectivity with western Bengaluru. The extension along Magadi Road is expected to bring the metro’s reach closer to areas where there has been rapid residential development but limited public transport options.
Officials say these extensions will help connect western suburbs to the existing Green and Purple lines, reduce reliance on private vehicles and reduce congestion on main roads.
Phase III Plans and Tender Timeline
Beyond the corridors currently under construction, the third phase of the metro project is expected to add about 45 km to the network. This phase plans to connect new residential and suburban areas such as Sarjapur Road, Hebbal and parts of the Outer Ring Road.
BMRCL officials have indicated that after final approval, tenders for Phase III are expected to be floated in early 2026. The timeline for construction of these corridors will depend on land acquisition, funding approval and contractor recruitment.
Long-term vision for suburban connectivity
In the long term, metro planners are studying a possible extension beyond the city limits to areas such as Bidadi, Nelamangala, Devanahalli and Hoskote. Although these proposals are still in the feasibility stage, they signal a shift towards integrating Bengaluru’s metro network with its expanding suburban area.
Officials say such extensions could eventually complement suburban rail services and help manage daily passenger traffic entering the city.
What does this mean for passengers
Once the upcoming corridors are operational, the reach of the Metro will extend deeper into residential, industrial and commercial areas, providing faster and more predictable travel options. Officials hope the expanded network will ease pressure on major roads, reduce travel times and encourage a shift away from private vehicles.
While the timeline remains dependent on construction progress and security clearances, officials say the push towards a 175 km metro network is a decisive step towards citywide connectivity for Bengaluru.
December 24, 2025, 11:19 IST
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