Bengaluru's Namma Metro Yellow Line Set for August Launch After Delays
Exciting News for Commuters
Bengaluru: Residents are eagerly anticipating the debut of the Namma Metro's Yellow Line, which spans 19.15 kilometers and links Rashtreeya Vidyalaya Road (R.V. Road) in South Bengaluru to Bommasandra in the Southeast. Initially expected to open in 2021, the project has encountered several delays, with the latest target of June 2025 also missed. However, with all safety checks completed, the inauguration is now scheduled for the second week of August 2025.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to officiate the opening ceremony, although this has not yet been officially confirmed.
Overview of the Metro Line
The Metro:
The first phase of the Yellow Line will initially run three trains, catering to approximately 25,000 passengers each day. Full operations, featuring 15 trains and a capacity of 200,000 passengers daily, are anticipated to commence by 2026.
This line will include 16 stations from R.V. Road to Bommasandra, connecting with the Green Line at R.V. Road and integrating with the Pink and Blue Lines at Silk Board and Jayadeva Hospital.
Benefits for Commuters
Who Will Benefit?
The Yellow Line is expected to significantly aid commuters traveling from R.V. Road to Bommasandra via Silk Board, alleviating congestion in these areas and improving connectivity with the Pink and Blue Lines.
Silk Board Junction is notorious for traffic jams. In 2024, a 5.12-kilometer flyover was constructed to alleviate congestion, but traffic issues remain as vehicles from various directions continue to converge.
While the road journey from R.V. Road to Bommasandra takes nearly an hour, metro users will complete the trip in under an hour.
Station Details
The 16 Stations:
The Yellow Line features 16 strategically placed metro stations designed to serve key neighborhoods and meet the needs of Bengaluru's commuters. Starting at R.V. Road, which connects with the Green Line, it enhances overall metro connectivity. Key stops include Jayadeva Hospital for patients and staff, B.T.M. Layout for residents, and Silk Board to ease traffic at a busy junction. H.S.R. Layout connects a major IT hub, while Oxford College serves students and staff. Other stations like Muneshwara Nagar, Central Silk Board, and Bommanahalli cater to various residential and industrial areas.
Trial Run Insights
Namma Metro Trial Video:
A trial run video of the Namma Metro has gained traction on social media, showcasing six coaches moving slowly alongside regular traffic.
Importance of the Yellow Line
Why The Yellow Line Is Important:
This line is crucial for reducing congestion and enhancing public transport options. Former Joint Commissioner of Traffic, M.N. Anucheth, has emphasized the need for improved connectivity in Bengaluru, noting that the district has 1.23 crore registered vehicles and lacks public transport options compared to cities like Mumbai and Delhi.
Latest Updates
The Update:
The final inspection phase, conducted by the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS), began on July 22 and concluded shortly thereafter. The CMRS assessed various aspects, including tracks, fire safety measures, and the operational readiness of the driverless train.
An official stated, “Following the CMRS survey, the Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) will require two weeks to implement any safety and operational recommendations. Once these are addressed, the Yellow Line is expected to commence operations by mid-August.”
Public Sentiment
What Residents Say
As the inauguration date approaches, Bengaluru residents express excitement about the Yellow Line's launch. K Bhavani, a local from Basapura near Hosa Road, remarked, “We have been waiting for the yellow line for over five years. I hope this time the announcement is genuine and it starts running next month as promised.”
Another commuter, Tarun Yadav, shared on social media, “There goes my commute time saver. Open the Yellow Line soon, please,” along with a video of a trial run.
Another user, Abhay, expressed his joy by posting a photo of the Yellow Line metro, stating, “Finally seeing the Yellow Line at the station. Tears of joy.”