Bengaluru’s Pink Line nears launch as minister takes trial ride

Bengaluru’s Namma Metro Pink Line has moved a step closer to opening for commuters, with Karnataka’s Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda taking a trial ride on the corridor’s first operational stretch.

The 7.5-km section between Kalena Agrahara on Bannerghatta Road and Tavarekere is now ready for inauguration, according to the minister.

He was joined on the visit by Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya, Bengaluru South MLA M Krishnappa, and Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) Managing Director PC Jaffer.

The group also inspected the Majestic Metro station before boarding the Pink Line train.

The stretch is part of Namma Metro’s Phase II expansion. BMRCL has completed all preparations needed to begin passenger services, and the state government is now awaiting confirmation of an inauguration date from the Central government, which officials expect to receive within September.

The trial run comes after the corridor missed its original August 15 opening deadline. Once operational, this stretch will add a much-needed metro link along the heavily congested Bannerghatta Road corridor, with the remaining sections of the Pink Line expected to open in phases as construction progresses.