- By Aditya Jha
- Mon, 15 Sep 2025 03:46 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Namma Metro Update: In a major update for the Namma Metro users, the Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) is set to increase the fare by up to 5 per cent every year after February 2026. The authority stated that the fare will be increased for the maintenance works and expansion projects. However, the hike is likely to receive backlash from the commuters, as the BMRCL had increased the fare by up to 71.43 per cent in February. The Bengaluru metro witnessed the first fare hike since 2017, making it one of the costliest metros of the country. While the commuters slammed the authority for the price hike, BMRCL stated that the changes were required.
While providing details, the authority stated that an annual automatic fare revision formula is needed for the ongoing metro projects in the capital city of Karnataka. “Against the year-wise loan repayments of Rs 911 crore, Rs 1,338 crore, Rs 1,440 crore, and Rs 1,457 crore from FY 2025-56 to 2029-30, the cash available is only Rs 601 crore, Rs 917 crore, Rs 853 crore, and Rs 1,018 crore, respectively," the BMRCL stated.
"Therefore, no cash accrual will be available to meet asset renewals and replacements. Thus, it is necessary to have an annual automatic fare revision formula to revise the fare based on the changes in the various elements of O&M (operations and maintenance) costs,” the authority added. In a separate update, the BMRCL on September 12 stated that the Pink Line will start operation in 2026.
The authority confirmed that the 21.3-km corridor will open in two phases by 2026. The elevated section from Tavarekere to Kalena Agrahara, along Bannerghatta Road, is expected to start operations by March 2026. The 13.76-km underground stretch, connecting Dairy Circle to Nagawara via M.G. Road, Shivajinagar, and Tannery Road, is slated for September 2026.