Bengaluru: The newly opened Yellow Line of Namma Metro, connecting RV Road to Bommasandra, has been drawing unexpectedly high ridership since its launch on August 10. Despite operating just three trains every 25 minutes, the line has already been averaging around 60,000 daily passengers, according to officials of the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL).
Higher-than-expected commuter numbers
BMRCL officials revealed that they initially expected the numbers to taper off after the launch excitement, perhaps stabilising around 30,000 daily riders. However, the opposite happened. Commuters continue to opt for the metro despite the low frequency, with officials observing that many people are willing to wait longer if it means avoiding Bengaluru’s notorious traffic snarls.
Popular among tech professionals
The Yellow Line serves several tech corridors, especially Electronic City and Bommasandra, making it a preferred choice for IT professionals. The route is already easing pressure on the city’s congested roads, particularly during peak hours. Interestingly, while many commuters still prefer cabs in the morning, the metro sees heavier crowds in the evenings. According to BMRCL estimates, the evening rush accounts for nearly 20 per cent more riders compared to the morning hours.
Plans for expansion
To address the growing demand, the corporation is planning to introduce a fourth train on the route in the coming weeks. This is expected to significantly improve frequency and reduce waiting times, thereby attracting even more commuters. Officials believe the increased capacity will further ease road congestion, especially in tech-heavy zones.
Impact on road traffic
The metro’s effect on Bengaluru’s traffic patterns is already visible. Employees working in the IT sector, as well as residents living along the Yellow Line corridor, have reported shorter commute times and reduced congestion. For instance, one commuter noted that a trip from Bommasandra to MG Road, which used to take about 1 hour 45 minutes by road, now takes roughly 1 hour 10 minutes by metro. Despite the metro being ₹300 to ₹400 cheaper than driving, the commuter admitted to sometimes returning to road travel out of habit.
Changing patterns for auto drivers
Auto drivers, too, have noticed the shift. A driver from Banashankari explained that earlier, many techies relied on autos after work. Now, however, most are boarding the metro for their evening commutes, reflecting the rapid adoption of the service.
Conclusion
With the addition of a fourth train expected shortly, ridership numbers on Bengaluru’s Yellow Line are likely to rise further. The line is not only providing a cost-effective option for thousands of commuters but is also gradually reducing the city’s traffic woes. For a city long plagued by congestion, this metro expansion marks a promising shift towards sustainable urban mobility.