Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) is grappling with a significant staff shortage that has left a majority of Namma Metro stations operating without station controllers during night shifts, raising concerns about operations, passenger assistance and emergency response.

According to officials, BMRCL currently has more than 480 vacancies across its operations and maintenance departments. The shortage includes nearly 200 vacant Station Controller/Train Operator (SC/TO) positions and around 280 vacancies in other operations and maintenance roles.

Most stations lack controllers at night

Sources said that due to the shortage, nearly 70 to 80 per cent of Namma Metro stations function without a station controller between 9.30 pm and 6.30 am.

During these hours, station operations are largely managed through centralised monitoring systems and support staff, while station controllers are deployed only at selected stations. Although metro services continue to operate, the absence of controllers at many stations has raised concerns over handling emergencies and providing immediate passenger assistance.

Recruitment efforts underway

BMRCL officials acknowledged the staffing gap and said recruitment efforts are underway to fill the vacancies. However, the hiring process, training requirements and certification of new recruits take time before they can be deployed for operational duties.

The metro network has expanded rapidly in recent years, increasing the demand for trained personnel to manage stations, operate trains and maintain infrastructure.

Growing network, growing manpower needs

As Namma Metro continues to expand with new corridors and extensions, experts believe strengthening the workforce will be crucial to maintaining service quality and ensuring passenger safety.

The staff shortage highlights the challenges of keeping pace with the city’s fast-growing public transport network. Commuters and transport experts have called for faster recruitment and workforce planning to ensure efficient operations across all metro stations, particularly during late-night hours