10.3 km Bangalore metro line to be operational in September

Metro train services here would be extended with the launch of 10.3 km line connecting industrial hub of Peenya and Sampige Road Station in the city from September. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, in a written reply to a question by Appaji Nadagouda (Congress) in the Legislative Assembly, noted that this stretch of 10.30 km has 10 stations. Trains would run between Jalahalli and Hesaraghatta Cross(2.5 km stretch) from March next. Change of metro alignment at the Jayadeva Institute of Cardiology would cost additional Rs 145 crore to the State exchequer. Meanwhile, officials said clearance from the Centre for the 'Namma Metro' works of phase-II covering 72 kms at a cost of Rs 26,045 crore is expected shortly. The government has done a feasibility study for suburban rail system connecting Bangalore to Tumkur and Ramanagaram, among others. The project is expected to cost Rs 8,759 crore. A detailed project report for phase-I would be prepared,officials said, adding special purpose -- Bangalore Sub-Urban Rail Corporation -- would be set up for implementing this project.   DHNS