Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) plans to develop retail stores in vacant spaces in metro stations.

BMRCL invited proposals from bidders to select licensees for the commercial vacant spaces offered at the metro stations.

It comprises pre-qualification, technical proposals and financial bids (two stages).

BMRCL has identified about 100 open spaces in 24 metro stations.

In total, 155,034 square feet of vacant spaces have been identified at 24 Namma Metro stations. Spaces have been identified at Baiyappanahalli, SV Road, Indiranagar, Halasuru, Trinity, MG Road, Vijayanagara, Attuguppe, Kengeri Bus Terminal, Nagasandra, Dasarahalli, Jalahalli, Yeshwanthpur, Mahalakshmi, Rajajinagar, Srirampura, Mantri Square Sampige Road, NadaPrabhu Kempegowda, Chickpet, National College, Lalbagh, Jayanagara, Banashankari, and JP Nagara, reports Bangalore mirror.

"BMRCL proposes to leverage both the brand “Namma Metro” and the stations and properties being located in the vicinity of major commercial hubs of Bengaluru for realising a potential source of non-fare box revenue. One of the sources of non-fare box revenue is through licensing of spaces for commercial use in and around the metro stations", read the tender.

"The proper survey has been made for selecting the choice of commercial vacant spaces at the respective stations so as to serve the commuter’s daily needs." it added.

The measure is likely to generate crores of rupees in non-fare revenue.

This move not only benefits commuters by offering them a range of retail options but also provides an opportunity for businesses to establish themselves in high-traffic areas.

The presence of retail outlets can contribute to the overall passenger experience.