The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved several projects, including metro network expansions in Bengaluru, Thane, and Pune, as well as the development of Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal and the transformation of an army airport in Bihar's Bihta, into a civilian facility.
As per PIB, the metro network of Bengaluru will be further expanded with the approval of Phase-3 of the Bangalore Metro Rail Project, costing Rs. 15,611 crore. This phase will add 2 elevated corridors spanning 44.65 km with 31 stations, enhancing connectivity and easing traffic congestion in the city.
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Corridor 1, stretching 32.15 km from JP Nagar 4th Phase to Kempapura along the Outer Ring Road West, will cover 21 stations, connecting industrial and residential areas, including key IT sectors and educational institutions. Corridor 2, extending 12.50 km from Hosahalli to Kadabagere along Magadi Road, will include 9 stations, serving the western part of Bengaluru.
The completion of Phase 3 by 2029 will expand the metro network of Bengaluru to 220.20 km, making it one of India's largest urban transit systems and contributing to employment, local business growth, and environmental sustainability by reducing carbon emissions.
Thane Integral Ring Metro Rail Project
Thane will see the development of the Thane Integral Ring Metro Rail Project, a 29-km ring corridor with 22 stations, for Rs. 12,200 crore. Set to be operational by 2029, this project aims to reduce road traffic congestion and provide a sustainable transport alternative, with an estimated daily ridership of 6.47 lakh passengers by 2029, rising to 8.72 lakh by 2045.
The Pune Metro Phase-1 project will be extended southward with the Swargate to Katraj underground line extension, costing Rs. 2,954.53 crore. This 5.46 km stretch, including three underground stations, is likely to enhance connectivity in Pune's southern regions and alleviate traffic congestion, with an expected daily ridership of 1.97 lakh passengers by 2057 ensuring seamless connectivity across different modes of transport.
Airports In Bihar, West Bengal Set For Major Upgrades
To address the growing demand at Patna Airport, the Cabinet has approved the development of a new civil enclave at Bihta in Bihar, with an investment of Rs. 1,413 crore. The project will include a new Integrated Terminal Building designed to accommodate up to 3,000 peak-hour passengers, with an annual capacity of 50 lakh passengers, expandable to one crore.
Additionally, the Cabinet has approved the development of a new civil enclave at Bagdogra Airport, Siliguri in West Bengal, with an estimated cost of Rs. 1,549 crore. The new terminal, covering 70,390 sqm, will handle 3,000 peak-hour passengers, with an annual capacity of 10 million passengers, and will focus on sustainability through green building design and renewable energy use.
According to the press release of PIB, Union Minister for Civil Aviation Shri Rammohan Naidu said, "I am pleased to share that the Cabinet has approved two vital projects that will significantly enhance the capacity and efficiency of Bagdogra and Bihta airports. These projects, with a combined investment of ₹2962.00 crore, are integral to our broader strategy of improving regional connectivity and meeting the increasing demand for air travel across India”.