Namma Metro Nears Finalisation of Land Plan for Phase 3, Targets 2028 Completion

Bengaluru: Namma Metro is on the verge of finalising the land acquisition plan for the bulk of its ambitious Phase 3 expansion, which is slated for completion by 2028. This phase, also known as the Orange Line, has faced delays, primarily due to the need for additional land to construct three stations in southern Bengaluru.

Delays in Land Acquisition

Phase 3 comprises two major corridors: JP Nagar 4th Phase to Kempapura (32.15 km) and Hosahalli to Kadabagere (12.5 km). Initial plans had identified 777 private properties, covering 1,29,743 square metres, for Corridor 1. However, additional land was required to build three key stations—JP Nagar 5th Phase, Kamakhya Bus Depot, and Hosakerehalli—leading to delays in finalising the land plan.

MS Channappagoudar, General Manager (Land Acquisition) at Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL), confirmed that the land plan for Corridor 1 was initially finalised, but the need for additional land necessitated further adjustments. “We have identified the properties and will soon send a preliminary notification through the Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board (KIADB),” Channappagoudar

Impact on Private Properties

The properties identified for acquisition predominantly include commercial structures, with no significant institutions or heritage buildings affected. However, the final cost of land acquisition remains uncertain, as it may deviate from the Detailed Project Report (DPR) estimates due to changes in land-use patterns.

Corridor 1 will primarily traverse the western side of the Outer Ring Road, with private land mainly required for station construction and road-widening efforts. BMRCL has assured that property owners will be compensated at twice the market value, as determined by a government-appointed committee.

Awaiting Government Approval

The DPR for Phase 3 is currently awaiting approval from the union government. BMRCL Managing Director M Maheshwar Rao expressed optimism about the approval process, noting that a recent request was made by the deputy chief minister to expedite the matter. “We are hopeful that the Centre will approve the DPR soon. A response is awaited,” Rao told *DH*.

The Future of Delmia Circle Flyover

A significant point of contention in Phase 3 is the fate of the Delmia Circle flyover. Currently, the metro line is planned to pass above the existing flyover, with portal piers constructed on either side. However, future plans to build double-deck flyovers in conjunction with metro lines could alter this design.

The BMRCL is currently studying the feasibility of constructing metro-cum-flyovers under Phases 3 and 3A. Phase 3 could see the development of two such double-deck flyovers along the corridors from JP Nagar 4th Phase to Hebbal (29.2 km) and Hosahalli to Kadabagere (11.45 km).

Any decision regarding the double-decker flyover at Delmia Circle will involve the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), which will share a portion of the costs. If approved, the metro line will run entirely along the median, eliminating the need for additional private land. However, this may necessitate the demolition of the Delmia Circle flyover.

Another consideration is the starting point of the double-deck flyover—whether it will begin after Vega City Mall or at Delmia Circle flyover, as noted by Channappagoudar.

Geotechnical Investigations Underway

To facilitate construction, BMRCL has awarded contracts worth Rs 5.5 crore for geotechnical investigations. These studies will assess the terrain and identify the machinery required, aiding contractors in estimating construction costs. The results of these investigations will play a crucial role in determining the final design and implementation strategy for Phase 3.

As Namma Metro moves closer to finalising its land acquisition plan, the project remains a key component of Bengaluru’s future infrastructure development. The successful completion of Phase 3 will significantly enhance the city’s public transport network, providing much-needed relief to its burgeoning population.