Bengaluru Metro Launches New Green Line Extension Boosting Connectivity

Bengaluru’s metro network is set to grow on November 7 with the launch of a 3.1-kilometer extension of the Green Line, introducing three new stations near the popular IKEA area. This addition will bring the city’s metro coverage to a total of 78.95 kilometers, with over 60 stations, making Bengaluru’s Namma Metro the second-largest metro network in India after Delhi. The Green Line extension has been highly anticipated by Bengaluru residents and is expected to improve connectivity significantly in the area.

The newly added 3.1 km stretch includes the stations Manjunath Nagara, Chikkabidarakallu, and Madavara. These stops will link up with existing stations on the Green Line, creating a more seamless commute for residents and easing the congestion that has long plagued Tumakuru Road, one of the city's key transportation arteries. This extension aims to benefit daily commuters, shoppers, and visitors, especially in areas around IKEA, a popular shopping destination that attracts high footfall on weekends and holidays.

Namma Metro: Building Bengaluru’s Future

The launch of this metro extension marks a milestone for Namma Metro, which faced significant hurdles and delays over the years to bring this project to life. According to the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL), this stretch was fully approved a month ago, but operational procedures required formal approvals before launching service. A senior BMRCL official stated that a final test run was conducted with Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar in attendance, signaling the completion of this long-awaited project.

Once operational, the extended line is anticipated to relieve some of the pressure on Tumakuru Road, which frequently experiences bottlenecks during rush hours. The Metro has already seen impressive demand, with Nagasandra metro station reporting a sudden surge in passengers on Monday following the festive season. BMRCL reported that between 6 am and 11 am, the station saw approximately 15,800 passengers—a sharp increase from the usual 11,000. BMRCL managed the crowds by implementing additional safety measures and manual checks to ensure smooth flow.

Metro Milestones and Growing Demand

Bengaluru’s metro expansion has been met with growing public demand. After facing nearly seven years of delays due to various challenges, the Green Line extension is finally reaching the public. Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya previously voiced concerns about the delays, emphasizing the need for expedited coordination between state and central authorities to bring the project online. Surya recently confirmed that discussions with BMRCL were held to accelerate the project’s launch, in response to the public’s call for better transportation solutions.

This extension is expected to support the city's growing population and urban spread. For residents, workers, and shoppers, the additional connectivity options are expected to make daily commutes more accessible and efficient. The metro extension also reflects the city’s broader ambitions to expand public transportation, reduce traffic congestion, and promote sustainable urban transit solutions.

A Step Forward for Bengaluru’s Metro Vision

With the Green Line extension finally operational, Bengaluru takes another step toward establishing a comprehensive metro network that serves diverse communities across the city. The extended network is poised to play a vital role in the city’s long-term infrastructure goals, supporting economic growth and easing transportation woes. As Namma Metro continues to evolve, Bengaluru can look forward to an expanded, efficient metro system that keeps pace with the city’s vibrant and fast-growing population.