BMRCL in bind to meet Namma Metro timelines

Bangalore Metrol Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) is caught in a bind. It is finding itself in a Catch 22 situation. While the corporation, is racing against time to complete the Phase I of Namma Metro, pressure is mounting on it to kick start the Phase II work as well. 

According to BMRCL officials with the process of issuing tender for overground works expected to be completed only by July-end, the process for underground stretch will get over only by September. 

BMRCL Managing Director Pradeep Singh Kharola said: “Phase II will be completed in five years’ time. The lessons learnt during Phase I will be helpful for executing works in Phase II. We have issued notification regarding properties to be acquired and we have to start with disbursal of land compensation.”

The only silver living is that the tender for executing work beyond Nayandanhalli Station (Mysuru Road), which falls under Phase II, has been awarded. However, most important connectivity in Phase II is between Baiyapannahalli and Whitefield. 

Recently, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who had first hand experience of choc-a-bloc traffic during his City rounds, directed BMRCL officials to expedite the work on this stretch.

BMRCL has issued tender notification to study the condition of buildings as pre-requisite for demolition of 199 properties between Baiyappanahalli and Whitefield station.

BMRCL has identified 199 properties which are coming in Phase II, Reach-1 Extension. 

As per plan, for elevated line under Phase-2 in IT corridor extending to Whitefield from Baiyapannahalli, 13 stations are to be constructed.