KR Market Metro station to reflect Bengaluru's heritage

Walls of the entrances to the KR Market Metro station will be designed to resemble the Bengaluru fort, with authorities keen to make Namma Metro part of Bengaluru’s heritage and culture.

The Karnataka Rural Infrastructure Development Ltd (KRIDL), which is executing the work, is working on cladding the outer walls of the south-west entrance with ‘Mysore Gold Stone’, a soft granite similar in looks to the stones of the fort wall.

Bangalore Metro Rail

Corporation Ltd (BMRCL) managing director Pradeep Singh Kharola had previously said that the market station will be designed in such a way that it will stand in harmony with the historical structures in the area.

Balancing act

“The Department of Urban Land Transport (DULT) and the BMRCL have come up with designs to develop the KR Market Metro station and surrounding area in such a way that urbanisation is balanced with the culture represented by surrounding monuments.

“Our work is monitored and suitable changes are being made at every step when required,” KRIDL executive engineer Nagaraja said. Nagaraja said the first phase of the work consisting of concretisation of KR Road, constructing footpaths and utilities have been completed. “Toilets and other public utilities will be constructed in the next phase of the project. All our works contribute to the plan to make the stations accessible,” he said.
Transit hub

A DULT official said that there was a proposal to integrate all modes of transportation. “Next to the Metro station is a very significant bus station that connects half of the city and it is essential that both are integrated. Also, key monuments of the city, like Bengaluru fort and Tipu’s summer palace are at walking distance from the Metro station. So, we are looking at providing a safe environment for pedestrians,” the official said.