The Namma Metro Yellow Line is poised to transform Bengaluru’s public transportation landscape with its innovative driverless technology and elevated flyover design. Set to commence operations in early January 2025, this ambitious project spans 19.15 kilometers from RV Road to Bommasandra and features 16 fully elevated stations.
The Yellow Line, which has an estimated cost of ₹5,745 crore, will utilize advanced driverless trains designed to enhance operational efficiency and safety. This cutting-edge technology aims to reduce human error and improve the overall commuter experience.
One of the standout features of the Yellow Line is its construction along elevated flyovers. This design not only minimizes land acquisition challenges but also reduces traffic disruptions during construction, allowing for seamless integration with existing road networks. Key stations along the route include Jayadeva Hospital, which will be India’s tallest metro station at 39 meters, and other significant stops such as BTM Layout, Silk Board Junction, and Electronics City.
The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has confirmed that initial services will operate with three driverless trains at 30-minute intervals. Plans are in place to expand the fleet to 36 trains by August 2025, accommodating an anticipated daily ridership of around 250,000 passengers. This expansion is expected to significantly alleviate traffic congestion in the city.
As part of the preparations for the launch, safety inspections by the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) are scheduled for January 2025 to ensure compliance with safety standards. However, concerns have been raised regarding accessibility at certain stations, particularly Bommasandra, where a lack of pedestrian pathways has been criticized. BMRCL is under pressure to address these issues to ensure convenient access for all commuters.
The Namma Metro Yellow Line represents a significant leap forward in Bengaluru’s public transport infrastructure. With its driverless trains and elevated structure, it promises to enhance connectivity across key industrial and residential areas in the city. As the launch date approaches, BMRCL is focused on final preparations to ensure a smooth rollout for this much-anticipated addition to Bengaluru’s metro network.
