Bengaluru’s Namma Metro might soon allow passengers to carry sealed bottles of alcohol on board, inspired by the rules in Delhi Metro. This topic has been discussed several times in recent meetings held by the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation (BMRCL), reported The Indian Express quoting its sources. While there is in-principle approval for the change, it is still in the early stages, and the actual implementation might take some time. The idea is to follow the Delhi model, where alcohol is currently allowed on the airport line of the Delhi Metro. BMRCL sources mentioned that once Namma Metro is connected to Kempegowda International Airport (expected in about two years), the rule will likely apply there as well.
Why Alcohol is Banned on Metro?
At present, carrying liquor bottles on Namma Metro is not allowed. However, BMRCL officials explained that there is no specific reason behind this ban, and it has been a common request from passengers. Many people have asked why sealed bottles are banned when other items like food and drinks are allowed on trains, as long as they are in proper packaging.
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“We have received several requests and feedback over the years questioning why liquor is prohibited on a public transport system. Some have pointed out that while eating and drinking are not allowed inside trains, carrying sealed bottles like any other luggage should not pose a problem. There have also been instances where security staff at some stations have allowed passengers to carry bottles,” the official said, according to the media repr.
While there are no plans to allow passengers to consume alcohol on board, the idea is to allow sealed bottles to be carried in a similar way to other luggage. BMRCL emphasized that consumption of alcohol during the journey is still prohibited and that passengers must behave properly and not disturb others.
As of now, discussions are still ongoing, and BMRCL officials have confirmed that deliberations continue about allowing liquor bottles in the future. So, while this change will not happen immediately, it is a step toward making Namma Metro more passenger-friendly, with a system similar to Delhi Metro’s.
