The Bengaluru Metro’s Pink Line, an integral part of the city’s Phase 2 metro expansion, is on the verge of completion with a remarkable 98% of the tunneling work finished. Stretching 13.76 kilometers between Kalena Agrahara and Nagawara, the Pink Line aims to enhance connectivity and ease traffic congestion in some of the city’s busiest corridors.
BMRCL’s Tunneling Progress and Challenges Overcome
The Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) announced that the tunneling work for the critical segment between Kadugondanahalli and Nagawara stations began on February 3, 2024. Overcoming numerous challenges, the project has achieved a significant breakthrough with 20,582.7 meters of the total 20,992 meters of tunneling completed, marking 98% completion.
Completing this phase of tunneling was no small feat, involving careful planning, precise engineering, and coordination among multiple teams. The BMRCL has been working diligently to meet its deadlines despite the complex geological conditions and urban landscape of Bengaluru.
Role of Tunnel Boring Machines in Achieving the Milestone**
The use of advanced Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs), notably the TUNGA series, has been pivotal in reaching this milestone. A total of eight TBMs were deployed to ensure smooth progress across the challenging terrains. These machines have been instrumental in navigating the varying soil types and existing underground infrastructure while minimizing surface disruption.
TBM TUNGA’s ability to work continuously, even in dense urban settings, has reduced the overall time required for tunneling. The BMRCL team has managed these operations with precision, ensuring safety standards were upheld throughout the project.
Future Implications and Benefits of the Pink Line Completion**
The nearing completion of the Pink Line marks a significant development for the city’s metro network, promising to connect key residential and commercial areas seamlessly. Once operational, it will link the northern and southern parts of Bengaluru, providing a vital link between Kalena Agrahara and Nagawara.
This extension is expected to reduce travel time, enhance convenience for daily commuters, and contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing vehicular traffic and emissions.
Next Steps for Bengaluru Metro and Commuters**
With only 2% of the tunneling work remaining, BMRCL is gearing up for the final stages of construction, which include track laying, electrical work, and the installation of advanced safety systems. The corporation is optimistic about completing the Pink Line by mid-2025, with trial runs expected to begin early next year.
Commuters can look forward to a more extensive, efficient metro network that significantly eases the burden on Bengaluru’s roads and contributes to the city’s development as a more accessible and livable urban center.
Bengaluru Metro’s Pink Line project is set to transform the city’s transportation landscape, with 98% of the tunneling work completed. The diligent efforts of BMRCL, along with the cutting-edge technology of TBMs, have brought the metro expansion closer to reality. As the final stages are underway, the city’s residents can anticipate improved connectivity and reduced traffic congestion in the near future.