BMRCL May Allow Passengers to Carry Sealed Liquor Bottles in Namma Metro

Bengaluru : The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) is reportedly considering allowing passengers to carry fully sealed liquor bottles inside ‘Namma Metro’ trains, a move that could bring changes to existing metro regulations.

According to sources, the proposal has received in-principle approval from the corporation and has been discussed in recent board meetings. Once formal approval is granted, necessary amendments will be made to the metro’s prohibited items list.

At present, BMRCL has identified 58 prohibited items, including explosives, weapons, sharp objects, chemicals and highly inflammable materials. Alcohol and spirit currently fall under the category of inflammable substances and are therefore not permitted inside metro premises.

Officials indicated that the move is likely to follow the model adopted by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC). In Delhi, passengers are permitted to carry sealed liquor bottles on certain lines, including the Airport Express Line.

“We are studying the Delhi model. Once our metro connectivity to the airport is fully operational, similar provisions could be introduced. It may take around two years for implementation,” sources said.

An official was quoted as saying there is no specific legal or operational reason to completely prohibit passengers from carrying sealed liquor bottles. “People already travel after consuming alcohol.

The only concern is that it should not lead to nuisance or safety issues. If properly packed and sealed, liquor can be treated like any other item of luggage,” the official noted, though no clarity has been given on quantity limits.

Currently, eating and drinking are not allowed inside metro trains and stations. However, some commuters have argued that carrying sealed liquor for personal use should not be treated differently from other consumer goods, provided safety norms are maintained.

BMRCL Director Sumit Bhatnagar has reportedly confirmed that discussions are underway regarding permitting liquor bottles inside metro trains.

The proposal is expected to generate mixed reactions among commuters, with some welcoming the move as practical and others raising concerns over safety and public order. If approved, the revised guidelines will clearly specify packaging norms and permissible limits to ensure commuter safety and prevent misuse.

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