Bengaluru, 30 Sept

Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) announced the discontinuation of plans for Bettahalasur and Chikkajala stations on the Metro Blue Line, intended to connect Kempegowda International Airport. The cost for Chikkajala station is Rs 130 crore and Bettahalasur is Rs 140 crore.

BMRCL officials cited financial constraints as the primary reason for the decision, stating that cost-sharing agreements with state and central authorities do not apply to these stations. The state government was supposed to pay for Chikkajala station.

Previously, BMRCL had secured funding for the Bettahalasur station through private investment, with a real estate firm expressing interest in covering costs. An agreement was signed in July 2023, and the firm provided an initial token advance of Rs. 1 crore. However, the lack of subsequent engagement from the company has led BMRCL to conclude that the funding may not materialise.

The Metro Blue Line is designed to span 36.44 km and feature 17 stations to enhance access along Airport Road. The addition of the Bettahalasur and Chikkajala stations was originally proposed to improve services for residents commuting to and from the airport. Their exclusion is expected to have a significant impact on connectivity for many commuters in the area. Salar News