Bengaluru Metro Phase III Set to Transform Urban Connectivity
The Karnataka government has issued a preliminary notification to commence land acquisition for the first stage of the Bengaluru Metro Phase III project. This ambitious endeavour is expected to bolster the city’s public transport infrastructure, with plans to develop two elevated corridors spanning over 44 kilometres. The first stage focuses on acquiring 26,811 square metres of land for the stretch between JP Nagar 4th Phase and Mysuru Road station.
In a bid to address the growing demands of urban mobility, the project has drawn attention to its impact on local communities. According to the Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board (KIADB), 197 private properties, including vacant sites, residential buildings, and temporary structures, will be acquired to facilitate construction. Residents of these properties face significant disruptions, as the land will be repurposed to build the elevated viaduct and Metro stations. Additionally, the project requires 10,892 square metres of land from government agencies such as BBMP, BDA, and BMTC.
For many residents, the prospect of losing their homes and businesses to the project raises concerns about fair compensation and resettlement. While the government has pledged revised compensation packages to mitigate the impact, the emotional toll on affected families remains palpable. A resident from JP Nagar expressed, “While I understand the importance of this project, it’s hard to come to terms with losing a home that has been in our family for generations.” However, urban planners highlight the long-term benefits of the Metro expansion. Enhanced connectivity is expected to reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality, and provide a reliable mode of transportation for thousands of daily commuters. The Phase III development comes on the heels of earlier achievements in Bengaluru’s Metro journey. Phase I, covering 42.3 kilometres, was inaugurated in 2011, while Phase II, extending over 72.1 kilometres, is set for completion by 2025. The new phase aims to connect JP Nagar 4th Phase to Kempapura (32.2 km) and Kadabagere to Hosahalli (12.5 km), further integrating the city’s transit system.
At present, the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) is conducting geotechnical surveys along Outer Ring Road. These surveys, critical for civil construction, ensure that the Metro viaducts and stations are structurally sound. A senior BMRCL official stated, “Our priority is to minimise disruptions during construction. We are working closely with agencies to ensure smooth execution.” Despite the progress, land acquisition remains a contentious issue. Phases I and II encountered delays due to disputes over compensation and land ownership. Learning from these experiences, authorities are adopting a transparent approach in Phase III, promising fair negotiations with affected stakeholders. Objections raised during the acquisition process will be reviewed by relevant authorities to ensure justice for all parties. As Bengaluru continues its rapid urbanisation, Phase III of the Metro project promises to be a game-changer for the city’s public transport landscape. While challenges persist, the government’s focus on technical preparedness and stakeholder engagement underscores its commitment to delivering a project that balances development with community concerns. With construction expected to begin soon, the project represents a pivotal step towards a sustainable and connected Bengaluru.
