Final phases of Pink Line underground construction set to elevate city’s metro network, The Pink Line, an integral part of Bengaluru’s metro network, holds significant importance due to its extensive underground Metro tunnel. This tunnel, which connects Bannerghatta Road to Nagawara, is currently in its final stages of construction and is expected to be completed by August this year. The 13-kilometre tunnelling project has been taken up in three phases. The first two phases have already been successfully completed, with the third phase nearing its conclusion. As of now, the third phase of tunnelling stands at an impressive 94 per cent completion rate.A Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) official said, “This critical phase involves the excavation of 935 metres of tunnel between KG Halli and Nagawara, utilising advanced Tunnel Boring Machines named Tunga and Bhadra. Tunga, which began its journey southwards on February 2, and Bhadra, which started northwards on April 2, are making significant progress. Tunga is expected to finish its part of the tunnel by July 31, while Bhadra is anticipated to reach the end of its tunnelling process by August 31.
The successful completion of the tunnelling phases will pave the way for subsequent track laying and civil works, along with the installation of necessary infrastructure for the metro line. The Kalena Agrahara to Nagawara stretch, spanning 21.26 kilometres and encompassing 18 stations, is a crucial addition to Bengaluru’s metro network. This stretch includes both elevated sections and underground tunnels, ensuring efficient connectivity across various parts of the city.
Once operational, the Pink Line will play a vital role in easing transportation woes and enhancing connectivity for residents and commuters in Bengaluru. The BMRCL remains committed to delivering this project on schedule and ensuring that the metro system continues to be a reliable and efficient mode of public transportation for the city’s growing population.”
The Hosahalli-Kadabagere Metro works may commence by year-end if approved by the Centre. An official stated, “We had anticipated receiving approval for the Metro’s third phase before the announcement of Lok Sabha election dates. However, since that did not happen, and the election code of conduct is currently in effect, we must now await the incoming government, expected to take office by June, which may cause a slight delay.
The State cabinet has already given its approval, and progress depends on the Centre’s endorsement.” BMRCL has initiated preliminary works, including the land acquisition process and other necessary tasks. The plan is to execute the works in phases, with over 100 acres of land already identified for the project. Approximately 75 acres near Byadarahalli police station have been earmarked for depot construction, while an additional 25 acres are required for building a flyover.
Previously, the Centre had stipulated that only three bogies of trains would operate on this stretch instead of six. There are also plans to develop a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for constructing a Metro flyover and a road flyover for the new Metro stretches spanning from JP Nagar’s fourth phase to Hebbal (29.2 km) and Hosahalli-Kadabagere (11.45 km) stretches.
The complaint, received on Integrated Public Grievance Redressal System (IGPRS) by Dhananjaya P, one of the residents of the Sobha Arena Apartment, alleged there was foul smell and worms in the sewage treatment plant (STP) water at the building.
