On board Bengaluru’s Pink Line: First-day excitement meets commuter scepticism

On Saturday, November 14, Bengaluru's Pink Line, part of the Namma Metro Phase 2 network, commenced commercial operations on its elevated section. The newly opened stretch provided a taste of the eagerly anticipated metro service, connecting Bannerghatta Road, though many commuters expressed uncertainty about the benefits of a partial opening.

The track, stretching 21.25 km, consists of a 7.5-km elevated portion and a 13.76-km underground segment, with the latter yet to be operational. On its debut day, passengers, including families and children, took selfies and explored the new stations and trains, treating the ride as a leisurely outing rather than strictly a commute.

The 21.25-km corridor includes a 7.5-km elevated stretch and a 13.76-km underground section, of which only the elevated portion has been opened, serving six stations along Bannerghatta Road. The Pink Line trains, built by BEML Limited, are equipped with driverless capability and modern amenities such as USB charging ports, ergonomically designed seating, and upgraded passenger information systems.

While some passengers, like Mahesh Rao from BTM Layout, expressed satisfaction with the new service, others, like Vinil S. from Bilekahalli, questioned the immediate utility of the partial opening and suggested prioritising the full corridor's inauguration.