1st phase of Bangalore Metro to complete by March 2015

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah today said work on first phase of Bangalore Metro Rail is targeted to end by March 2015.

Presenting the 2014-15 state budget in the Assembly, he said, "Work relating to the first phase of Bangalore Metro Rail is under progress. The line from Peenya to Sampige Road has been completed and will be opened for public use."

"It is targeted to complete the entire network of 1st Phase by the end of March 2015," he added.

Stating that work relating to 2nd Phase of Metro comprising 61 stations covering a distance of 72.1 km was planned to be completed at the cost of Rs 26,405 crore, he said, "For this, approval of the Central Government has been received."

Commenting on the urban land transport, Siddaramaiah said, "Action will be taken under Comprehensive Mobility Plan through effective transport policy to curb the increasing usage of private vehicles and air pollution, and unregulated transport system in 52 towns of the state."

Mentioning about a total grant of Rs 1,527 crore from the state government to city civic body Bruhat Bangalore Mahanagara Palike is expected under various schemes and BBMP will utilise its own resources to take up projects, he said, "Comprehensive development of selected Arterial and Sub Arterial Roads for smooth flow of traffic at estimated cost of Rs 500 crore."

"Widening of some of the important roads at estimated cost of Rs 300 crore as per the Master Plan 2015; construction of Railway underbridges and overbridges at estimated cost of Rs 200 crore in collaboration with Railway Authorities," were among the list of projects he mentioned.