Bengaluru Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda has announced that trial runs on the long-awaited Outer Ring Road (Blue Line) Metro corridor are expected to commence in October 2026, marking a significant milestone for one of the city’s most crucial transport projects.

The announcement came after a review meeting with officials of the Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) to assess the progress of ongoing Namma Metro expansion works.

“We are targeting trial runs on the Blue Line from KR Pura to Marathahalli and, if possible, up to HSR Layout by October. We have instructed officials to work towards this target and will closely monitor progress,” Gowda said.

Relief in sight for ORR commuters

The Blue Line is among the most anticipated Metro corridors in Bengaluru as it passes through the city’s technology hub along the Outer Ring Road, connecting major employment centres and residential areas.

Thousands of commuters travelling daily between KR Pura, Marathahalli, Bellandur and Silk Board are expected to benefit from the corridor, which aims to reduce travel time and ease congestion on one of the city’s busiest stretches.

Officials indicated that construction activities, including viaduct development and track-laying, have progressed substantially across most sections of the route.

Some stations may face delays

While the government is targeting October for trial operations, officials acknowledged that work at key stations such as Marathahalli and Silk Board remains incomplete and could affect timelines.

BMRCL is reportedly accelerating construction efforts to ensure track-laying and related infrastructure are ready for testing.

The Blue Line forms part of Namma Metro Phase 2A and is expected to play a major role in improving public transport connectivity for Bengaluru’s IT corridor.

Metro expansion gathers pace

The announcement follows the state government’s renewed focus on expediting Metro projects across the city. Along with the Blue Line, officials are working towards completing sections of the Pink Line and the Airport Metro corridor under Phase 2B.

Authorities believe the expansion of the Metro network will be critical in addressing Bengaluru’s growing traffic challenges and supporting sustainable urban mobility in the years ahead.