"BMRCL Initiates Landwork for Commencement of Metro Phase 3"

The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) is gearing up to begin preliminary activities related to land acquisition for Phase 3 of the Namma Metro project. Initial plans include identifying 100 acres of land for constructing a depot and viaducts along specific stretches of the corridor. Officials anticipate that a joint survey of the identified properties will commence shortly.

Under Phase 3, BMRCL envisions constructing two Metro lines: one stretching from Kempapura to JP Nagar (32.1 km) along Outer Ring Road, and another covering a 12.5 km route from Hosahalli to Kadabagere on Magadi Road. While awaiting final approval from the central government, the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has directed BMRCL to modify the rolling stock procurement for the Magadi Road line.

The estimated cost of the Phase 3 project is Rs 15,600 crore, and the state government granted approval in November 2022. Recently, the finance department provided consent to initiate land acquisition, stipulating that the state cabinet's approval is necessary before incurring expenses for property compensation. BMRCL sources indicate that the entire land acquisition process and property possession may take up to six months.

Out of the designated 100 acres, 75 acres are earmarked for constructing a depot near Byadarahalli police station on Magadi Road. This proposed depot will serve both Metro lines planned for Phase 3. The remaining 25 acres will be allocated for constructing viaducts. A joint survey of the properties is expected to precede the issuance of preliminary notifications.

The BMRCL official highlighted that the planning section has been tasked with outlining land acquisition requirements for every 10 km of the proposed lines. The alignment of the proposed line follows the median of the road, and the planning section is meticulously determining land requirements for station construction. Notifications for property acquisition will be issued in increments of every 10 km of the proposed lines.

TOI