PM Modi Flags Off Bengaluru’s Yellow Line Metro
Bengaluru, August 10, 2025: After years of anticipation, Bengaluru’s much-delayed Yellow Line Metro finally came to life today. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 19.15-km corridor connecting R.V. Road to Bommasandra, a route designed to ease traffic chaos and revolutionise connectivity in the city’s IT hub.
A Long-Awaited Milestone
The Namma Metro Yellow Line has faced multiple setbacks since construction began in 2017. Originally set for completion in 2021, delays due to land acquisition hurdles, COVID-19 disruptions, and rolling stock supply issues pushed the opening by nearly four years. Today’s inauguration marks a turning point for Bengaluru’s urban mobility.
Connecting the IT Hub
This corridor is more than just a transport project. It directly links key areas like Silk Board and Electronic City, home to thousands of tech professionals. Commuters who once battled traffic jams daily will now have a faster, cleaner, and more reliable travel option.
According to Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL), the Yellow Line can significantly reduce congestion at the infamous Silk Board junction. The PM himself boarded the inaugural ride from Ragigudda Metro Station to Infosys Foundation Konappana Agrahara Station, interacting with schoolchildren along the way.
Symbolic and Functional
While the Yellow Line is built for driverless operation, it will initially run with loco pilots. In a symbolic move, today’s inaugural train was operated by a woman loco pilot, reflecting the growing role of women in India’s public transport sector.
Three Vande Bharat Trains Flagged Off
Alongside the metro inauguration, PM Modi flagged off three new Vande Bharat Express services:
- KSR Bengaluru–Belagavi
- Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra–Amritsar
- Nagpur (Ajni)–Pune
The Bengaluru–Belagavi service is expected to boost business, tourism, and connectivity between Karnataka’s key districts.
Voices from the City
Commuters have mixed feelings. Many are excited about the improved infrastructure. Others are concerned about the initial 25-minute train intervals, which could limit convenience during peak hours.
“I was hoping to ditch my bike for the metro,” said Murlidhar K.M., a resident of BTM Layout. “But with such long gaps between trains, it may still be faster to ride.”
PM Modi’s Vision
Addressing the crowd, PM Modi said, “The Yellow Line will improve ease of living and working for millions. Bengaluru’s talent will lead India’s journey towards a Viksit Bharat.” He highlighted how 50% of the world’s real-time UPI transactions happen in India and urged cities to become “smart, fast, and efficient.”
He also applauded corporate partners like Infosys Foundation, Biocon, and Delta Electronics for contributing to metro station development through CSR initiatives.
Political Undercurrents
The inauguration also sparked political debate. Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar claimed the State government funded 80% of the project, with minimal central contribution. Congress leaders accused the BJP of “credit hijacking,” while BJP leaders emphasised the Centre’s policy and funding support.
Traffic Advisory
Bengaluru Traffic Police issued advisories urging commuters to avoid stretches like Marenahalli Main Road and Silk Board to Hosur Road between 8:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Congestion is expected on Hosur Road and NICE Road towards Electronics City.
What This Means for Bengaluru
The Yellow Line will integrate with other metro lines and future phases, eventually serving over 25 lakh daily commuters. Urban planners believe this is a step towards making Bengaluru a model for sustainable urban transport.
Key Facts About the Yellow Line
- Length: 19.15 km
- Route: R.V. Road to Bommasandra
- Travel Time Reduction: Up to 40%
- Initial Train Frequency: Every 25 minutes
- Built for: Driverless operation
The Road Ahead
As Phase 3 of Namma Metro progresses, the Yellow Line’s success will depend on increasing train frequency, enhancing last-mile connectivity, and maintaining affordability. For now, the people of Bengaluru can finally celebrate a long-promised connection becoming reality.
