Bangalore Metro: Purple Line to Commence Operations From October 6

Bengaluru’s metro commuters can finally breathe a sigh of relief as the city’s purple line expansion is set to open on October 6.

The eagerly anticipated stretches of Krishnarajapuram – Baiyappanahalli and Kengeri – Challaghatta lines are poised to make their debut, offering a potential solution to the notorious traffic congestion in East Bengaluru, according to a recent Moneycontrol report.

The Commissioner for Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) has already given the green signal to the KR Puram – Baiyappanahalli section, while the Kengeri – Challaghatta line is in the final stages of awaiting CMRS approval. The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) is buzzing with excitement, preparing for a grand inauguration ceremony slated for Friday.

A senior official commented, “The Kengeri – Challaghatta line awaits CMRS approval, and if all goes according to plan, the entire purple line will be operational starting October 6.”

However, the delay in opening the KR Puram – Baiyappanahalli metro line has not gone unnoticed. Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya criticized the Congress-led state government for the persistent delays, saying, “About 5 to 6 lakh people use the Bengaluru metro every day. Around 50-60 per cent of this number will benefit once the Baiyappanahalli-KR Puram metro section opens. Despite receiving approvals and green signals from the CMRS, the state government continues to delay the line’s opening.”

Surya added, “The state government seems to be holding off on opening the operations to the public, possibly waiting for a visit from Rahul Gandhi or another Congress leader to inaugurate the project.”

Previously, the BMRCL had set a mid-July target for inaugurating the KR Puram – Baiyappanahalli line. Once operational, this extension is expected to significantly improve public transportation in Bengaluru, particularly benefiting commuters to Whitefield, home to numerous tech parks that draw employees from various parts of the city.

The 2km stretch on the purple line will connect East Bengaluru to various areas in the south and central parts of the city, potentially alleviating traffic congestion in the Whitefield area as more people opt for the metro as their daily commute choice.