Bengaluru Metro Red Line DPR Revised After ₹2,920 Crore Cost Cut
In a significant step towards improving urban mobility, the Karnataka government has re-submitted a revised Detailed Project Report (DPR) for Phase 3A of the Bengaluru Metro Red Line, linking Hebbal to Sarjapur. The new DPR reduces project expenditure by ₹2,920 crore, making it a more financially viable proposal for central government clearance.
The 37-kilometre corridor, part of the city’s ambitious Namma Metro expansion, is estimated to cost ₹25,485 crore, a notable drop from the earlier projection of ₹28,405 crore. The revised DPR has been prepared with technical support from international consultants to enhance cost efficiency without compromising connectivity or infrastructure quality.According to senior government officials, the revision was made after detailed scrutiny by experts who suggested optimising the design of underground stations and adjusting certain alignments to reduce construction complexities. The per-kilometre cost has consequently come down from ₹767 crore to ₹688 crore. The project retains its original 28 stations, ensuring last-mile access across Bengaluru’s busiest corridors.
The revised DPR has been formally re-submitted to the central government and is now under review. Officials said that approval from the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs is expected by early 2026, following which construction will begin in full swing. Geotechnical tenders worth ₹6.86 crore have already been floated to commence preliminary groundwork along the alignment.
Once cleared, the 37-km Red Line will significantly strengthen Bengaluru’s public transport network by linking Hebbal in the north to Sarjapur in the southeast two major growth corridors that currently face severe traffic congestion. The route will integrate seamlessly with multiple other metro lines, including the Blue Line at Hebbal, Purple Line at KR Circle, Pink Line at Dairy Circle, and another Blue Line interchange at Agara.
Officials highlighted that the project is not just a transport infrastructure initiative but also a key component in promoting sustainable, low-carbon urban mobility. With an estimated daily ridership of several lakh passengers, the Red Line is expected to substantially reduce dependence on private vehicles, curb emissions, and enhance the city’s air quality.The government has prioritised the Metro’s timely completion as part of its broader goal to achieve a carbon-neutral public transport system. The project, once implemented, will connect major IT corridors, educational hubs, and residential clusters, providing an efficient, green, and inclusive commuting option for Bengaluru’s fast-growing population.
