The fate of the Bettahalasur Metro Station is hanging in limbo as a private real estate firm, initially committed to financing its construction with approximately Rs 140 crore, has withdrawn its support. Despite an initial payment of Rs one crore, the firm has ceased communication and action, leaving the project’s future uncertain. Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) officials convened a meeting with major builders and private companies on May 29, but the firm in question was conspicuously absent. Consequently, concerns arise regarding the lack of progress on the station, which is crucial to the Namma Metro project’s integrity.A source revealed, “The construction of the Bettahalasur Metro Station has been halted due to the company’s inability to meet its financial obligations, despite an initial agreement.”
Meanwhile, progress on the Jakkur Plantation Metro Station, with an estimated cost of Rs 120 crore, is nearing completion, benefiting nearby residents.
Originally excluded from plans, the inclusion of the Bettahalasur station resulted from the private firm’s interest, which was later retracted due to financial constraints. Although BMRCL initially announced the project’s cancellation in December 2022, public pressure led to the inclusion of a smaller station in the plan. The company has once again expressed interest in constructing the station in 2023, but uncertainties persist. An official stated, “The construction of Jakkur Plantation and Chikkajala stations is confirmed, while the status of the Bettahalasur station remains uncertain.” The estimated cost of the project stands at Rs 140 crore. Amidst these developments, concerns loom over the future of the Bettahalasur Metro Station, highlighting the challenges faced in executing crucial infrastructural projects.
PSDs on Blue and Pink lines
The contract to implement the signalling system and platform screen doors (PSDs) for the Blue Line and Pink Line routes of the metro, which will connect to the international airport, has been awarded to a private company. Valued at approximately Rs 802 crore, the contract includes five years of operation and maintenance as well as staff training.
The scope of work under this contract encompasses the installation of PSDs at the stations on the Blue Line from Central Silk Board to KR Puram (2A) and from KR Puram to Kempegowda International Airport (2B), and on the Pink Line from Nagawara to Kalena Agrahara.
Additionally, it includes the implementation of the signalling system for both lines. A Metro official said, “PSDs are being installed on the Pink Line with a focus on passenger safety. Full-height PSDs will be installed at the underground stations, while half-height PSDs will be installed at the Airport City station. An operation control centre is being built at Baiyappanahalli for the Blue Line, with a backup control centre at Peenya. These centres will manage the movement of trains. The 53 trains being constructed by BEML will be operated from these centres.
The growing number of suicide attempts by jumping in front of trains has underscored the need for PSDs on the existing commercial lines, including the Purple and Green Lines. The focus on safety measures like PSDs aims to mitigate such incidents and enhance overall passenger security.”
