Namma Metro Pink Line Begins Operations: JICA-Supported Elevated Section Inaugurated in Bengaluru

Bengaluru, 13 November 2026: The section of the Namma Metro Pink Line, financed through Japanese Official Development Assistance (ODA) extended by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) India, was inaugurated today. The 7.5 km stretch between Kalena Agrahara and Tavarekere is the first operational section of the Namma Metro Pink Line, part of the Phase 2 network of being executed by Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) with the support of Government of India and state government of Karnataka.

Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the elevated section Pink Line (Reach-6). The ceremony was attended by Hon’ble Governor of Karnataka Dr. Sudha Yadav, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Karnataka Shri D. K. Shivakumar, Minister Shri Krishna Byredowda, Member of Parliament Shri Tejasvi Surya and Mr. NAWATA Hiroshi, Consul General of Japan in Bengaluru among other dignitaries.

JICA is one of the development partners, which has supported the construction of Bengaluru Metro Phase 2 through an ODA loan of JPY 52,036 million. The loan covers signalling and train control systems, rolling stock and consulting services for the project. The newly opened corridor runs along Bannerghatta Road through six stations, starting at Kalena Agrahara and passing Hulimavu, IIM Bangalore and JP Nagar 4th Phase before reaching Jayadeva Hospital and Tavarekere.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. TAKEUCHI Takuro, Chief Representative, JICA India, said, “The opening of the elevated section of Namma Metro’s Pink Line marks a significant milestone in Bengaluru’s urban development and reflects the growing strength of Japan-India cooperation in infrastructure development. At JICA, we believe that high-quality, sustainable infrastructure is fundamental to driving inclusive economic growth and building a low-carbon future. Our longstanding partnership with India in developing metro rail networks across cities demonstrates this shared commitment.”

On completion, the full 21.26 km Pink Line will link Kalena Agrahara to Nagawara, combining the 7.5 km elevated section with a 13.76 km underground corridor. With 18 stations in all, the line will provide direct connectivity to key hubs including MG Road, Pottery Town, IIM Bangalore, JP Nagar 4th Phase and Hulimavu, easing congestion on some of the most heavily travelled roads in the city.

The project reflects the longstanding partnership between the Government of India and the Government of Japan in strengthening urban transport infrastructure. Metro rail projects play a key role in improving connectivity between major economic centres, reducing traffic congestion and making urban mobility more efficient. Through its continued support for metro projects across India, Japan is contributing to the development of more accessible, efficient and sustainable urban transport systems, while supporting India's broader economic growth and urban transformation.

Through this cooperation, JICA has supported metro rail systems in several Indian cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Patna and Bengaluru. The opening of the Pink Line’s first section adds a new chapter to this journey and to Bengaluru’s growth as a well-connected city.

Bengaluru Metro Phase 2 will continue to open in stages. The remaining underground section of the Pink Line is expected to become operational by mid-2027, while the Blue Line, comprising Phase 2A and 2B, is expected to be fully operational by mid-2028.

About Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)
The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is Japan’s primary governmental agency responsible for delivering official development assistance (ODA) to partner countries worldwide. JICA plays a central role in advancing international cooperation and sustainable development for 145 countries including India.
https://www.jica.go.jp/english/overseas/india/index.html