A major shortfall at many Metro stations is the lack of designated parking for feeder buses, which hampers seamless connectivity for commuters. Addressing this issue, 11 stations in Phase 3 of the Namma Metro project are set to introduce multimodal connectivity systems.
These new facilities aim to enhance the commuter experience by providing easy last-mile connectivity and smoother transitions between different modes of transport, significantly improving the convenience of travel.
Phase 3 will include two corridors: one connecting JP Nagar 4th Phase to Kempapura (32 km) and another connecting Hosahalli to Kadabagere (13 km), with 22 and 9 stations respectively.Out of these, 11 stations will offer multimodal connectivity, meaning there will be dedicated spaces for feeder buses to stop, making it easier for passengers to reach their final destinations. Additionally, connections to railway stations and future suburban rail networks will also be provided, according to BMRCL (Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited) officials.
An official said, “To further enhance commuter convenience at busy junctions and roads, BMRCL has planned to construct 8-foot overbridges (FOBs). These will allow passengers to safely cross roads near major stations such as JP Nagar Junction, Kamakhya Junction, Mysore Road Station, Sumanahalli Junction, Peenya Station, BEL Circle Station, Hebbal Railway Station, and Hosahalli Station.”
In light of the increasing demand for parking spaces, particularly near stations, the BMRCL has drafted a parking policy aimed at providing a permanent solution to these issues and is inviting public feedback on the proposal. An official said that Bengaluru Metro is responding to the growing number of passengers, currently serving approximately 800,000 daily, by addressing the challenges commuters face with parking at metro stations.
As vehicles often block roads, causing inconvenience for the public, BMRCL is seeking to prioritise vehicle parking facilities to encourage more people to utilise public transportation.To gather public input, BMRCL has opened a window for feedback on the parking policy draft, inviting citizens to share their suggestions via email at rmygowda@bmre.co.in by October 18.
The policy proposes allocating reserved parking for specific user groups and implementing parking fees and oversight to effectively manage parking spaces through technological advancements.
The draft also stresses on establishing large-scale parking facilities at metro terminals to alleviate congestion in the city centre by accommodating vehicles from suburban areas.
It prioritises parking enhancements at interchange stations, particularly those near train, bus, and airport terminals, by providing multi-level parking solutions. Furthermore, the policy suggests exploring partnerships with private organisations if parking space is insufficient, including utilising existing parking facilities at nearby shopping malls, office buildings, and hotels.
“To ensure the safety and security of parked vehicles, the draft outlines measures such as employing security personnel around the clock and installing CCTV systems to monitor parking areas.
Adequate shade for vehicles will be provided to protect them, and sufficient lighting will be maintained in parking areas to deter illegal activities at night. The policy also includes provisions for monitoring the conduct of parking contractors through CCTV surveillance, allowing for immediate action against any violations.
Transparency is emphasised, with a pricing chart to be displayed at parking lot entrances, ensuring that contractors cannot impose additional fees. Oversight will be conducted for vehicles parked beyond operating hours, with necessary actions taken for vehicles left for more than three days, including notifying owners to remove their vehicles from the parking facility,” said the draft report.
