On May 23, 2025, Union Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs and Power, Shri Manohar Lal, reviewed the progress of various urban missions in Bengaluru, Karnataka. The meeting, attended by state ministers and senior officials, focused on advancing the Bangalore Metro Phase-2 and 3A projects, tackling legacy waste, and promoting sustainable urban development.
Bangalore Metro Expansion
Progress and Proposals
Shri Manohar Lal expressed satisfaction with the progress of urban missions and discussed the Bangalore Metro Phase-2 project. The revised cost estimate for this phase will be considered for central approval once the State Cabinet approves the proposal. Currently, 75 km of metro network is operational in Bengaluru, with 145 km under construction. The recently sanctioned Phase-3, approved a few months ago, spans 45 km at a cost of Rs 15,600 crore. The proposed Phase-3A, covering 37 km at an estimated cost of Rs 28,400 crore, awaits expert agency evaluation and state government response for central sanction.
| Metro Project | Details |
|---|---|
| Operational Network | 75 km |
| Under Construction | 145 km |
| Phase-3 | 45 km, Rs 15,600 crore, sanctioned recently |
| Phase-3A | 37 km, Rs 28,400 crore, under evaluation |
Legacy Waste Management
Prioritizing Sustainability
The minister urged Karnataka to prioritize legacy waste management to address environmental challenges. He emphasized the importance of reusing treated used water to enhance sustainability and preserve freshwater sources, a critical step for urban areas facing water scarcity.
Urban Planning Reforms
Promoting Public Transport
Shri Manohar Lal advocated for a higher Floor Area Ratio (FAR) along mass transit corridors to reshape cities, reduce road congestion, and encourage the use of public transport. This approach aligns with sustainable urban planning and supports the growth of metro networks.
Financial Support for Infrastructure
Leveraging SSASCI 2025-26
The minister encouraged Karnataka to undertake reforms to access the Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SSASCI) 2025-26, which offers a 50-year interest-free loan for infrastructure development. This scheme provides states with financial support to enhance urban infrastructure and drive sustainable growth.
Key Highlights
- Union Minister Shri Manohar Lal reviewed urban missions in Bengaluru on May 23, 2025.
- Bangalore Metro Phase-2 awaits State Cabinet approval for revised cost estimates; Phase-3A (37 km, Rs 28,400 crore) under evaluation.
- Karnataka urged to prioritize legacy waste management and reuse of treated used water.
- Higher FAR along transit corridors proposed to boost public transport usage.
- States encouraged to leverage SSASCI 2025-26 for infrastructure funding.