Bengaluru Metropolitan Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has initiated preparations for the construction of the ambitious Orange Line—a project set to bring a major infrastructure upgrade and connectivity boost to the city’s western corridor. The BMRCL plans to issue tenders for the new line within the next six months.
This new Orange Line will stretch for 12.5 kilometers and connect Hosahalli to Kadabagere Cross. The project is already generating significant buzz due to its unique design as a double-decker rail-cum-road flyover.
The Orange Line: A Double-Decker Marvel
The most distinctive feature of the Orange Line is its dual-layer structure, making it one of the most complex and potentially the tallest metro line in India:
- Layer 1 (Road Flyover): A dedicated road flyover will be constructed on the lower deck for vehicular traffic.
- Layer 2 (Metro Line): The Namma Metro line will be built on the upper deck, running directly above the road flyover.
This innovative double-decker design requires significant resources and time. While BMRCL generally achieves a construction pace of 7-8 km per year for standard metro lines, the double-decker project is expected to proceed at a slower pace of 3-5 km per year, requiring more time and capital.
Stations and Timeline
The 12.5-kilometer Orange Line will feature nine stations, enhancing connectivity for densely populated areas in West Bengaluru:
Project Timeline:
- Tender Process: BMRCL is finalizing tender documents and plans to issue the tender within the next six months.
- Construction Start: Construction work is slated to begin in June 2026.
- Completion Target: The complex double-decker construction is anticipated to take approximately 5.5 years to complete.
Once operational, the Orange Line is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion and provide a reliable public transport alternative for thousands of commuters on this busy stretch.
