The Metro link to Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) inched closer to realisation, with the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (BMRCL) calling for tenders to take up land and property survey along the proposed route - from Nagawara to KIA.BMRCL proposed five possible routes to KIA, and sought public opinion on the same. Subsequently, the Nagawara-Jakkur-Yelahanka line that runs parallel to Ballari Road was finalised for the Metro link.

Besides a topographical survey, the exercise will include a Differntial Global Positioning System (DGPS) study in order to ensure accurate alignment of the link with improved location accuracy . pleted, we have shifted our focus to expediting the implementation of Phase 2 and the KIA link. The link will help thousands of air passengers, many of whom have to cover 30km by road from the city, reach the airport faster," he added.

The proposed survey (and study) along the Nagawara-KIA will be taken up at the cost of Rs 24.42 lakh and the implementing agency will have to complete the exercise, and submit its report within six months.BMRCL has also floated another tender inviting bids to take up geotechnical investigation, which includes surface and subsurface exploration, along the proposed route.

The proposed link to the airport is, in effect, an extension to the Gottigere-Nagawara line - work on which is under way -that is being developed under Phase 2 of the Namma Metro project.The deadline that has been set for the completion of the airport metro link is 2020.