Bengaluru: Shuttle services on Namma Metro’s (also known as Bangalore Metro) green line were disrupted for 25 minutes on Monday (January 20) morning after a 49-year-old man, an ex-Air Force personnel, Anil Kumar Pandey, jumped onto the tracks at Jalahalli metro station around 10:25 AM. Swift response by Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) staff ensured the passenger was rescued unharmed, and normal operations resumed soon after.
The incident prompted the activation of the emergency trip system (ETS), halting train movement on the affected section. During this period, four trains operated on a short loop between Yeshwanthpur and Silk Institute stations instead of running the full route to Madavara. Train services were restored to normal by 10:50 AM.
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A police official at the scene said, “The individual was rescued immediately by the metro staff without any injuries. Considering the circumstances and the prompt response, no major delays were caused. However, such incidents disrupt operations and could have more serious consequences.”
Police also confirmed that no case was registered against the individual. “We verified his identity and determined this was a personal matter. He was handed over to his family after counseling,” the officer added.
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The incident marks the fifth such occurrence on the Namma Metro network, raising safety concerns among commuters. Many passengers have called for the installation of passenger screen doors (PSDs) to prevent access to the tracks and ensure uninterrupted services.
Rajesh Kannan, a commuter who was at Jalahalli station during the disruption, said, “Such incidents not only put lives at risk but also affect thousands of passengers relying on metro services. BMRCL should install safety barriers like PSDs to prevent such disruptions.”
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A senior BMRCL official praised the quick action of the staff and assured passengers of their commitment to safety. “Our teams are well-trained to handle emergencies, and we are constantly reviewing our safety measures. While we are considering the installation of Passenger Screen Doors, such upgrades require significant planning and investment,” the official said.
Operations on the green line returned to normal by 10:50 AM, with BMRCL assuring commuters of their focus on providing safe and reliable services.