The Bengaluru Metro’s Yellow Line is on the cusp of a significant milestone with the recent statutory inspection of its first driverless train. This development brings the long-awaited RV Road to Bommasandra corridor closer to operational readiness, promising enhanced connectivity for the city’s residents.
Statutory Inspection of Driverless Train
On February 24, 2025, the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS), A M Choudhary, and his team conducted a comprehensive inspection of the prototype driverless train designated for the Yellow Line. Manufactured by the China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation (CRRC), this train arrived in Bengaluru on February 14, 2024, and has since undergone rigorous internal testing at the Hebbagodi depot in Electronic City.
The CMRS inspection is a mandatory step before seeking approval from the Railway Ministry for new rolling stock. This process ensures that the train meets all safety and operational standards required for passenger service.
Next Steps Towards Operationalization
Following the successful inspection, the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) will seek approval from the Railway Board for the new rolling stock. Concurrently, signaling tests on the Yellow Line will be conducted to ensure seamless and safe train operations.
Upon completion of these tests, the CMRS will perform a final inspection of the entire R-5 section of the Yellow Line. Once all necessary approvals are obtained, the line will be opened for commercial operations.
Anticipated Launch Timeline
BMRCL officials have indicated that, subject to the timely arrival of additional train sets and the completion of requisite approvals, the Yellow Line is expected to commence operations by April 2025.
Significance of the Yellow Line
The 19-kilometer Yellow Line, stretching from RV Road to Bommasandra, encompasses 16 stations and serves as a vital transit link between key areas, including the bustling Central Silk Board and the industrial hub of Bommasandra. The introduction of driverless trains on this line is poised to enhance operational efficiency and passenger experience, marking a significant advancement in Bengaluru’s public transportation system.
Rolling Stock and Local Manufacturing
In December 2019, BMRCL awarded a contract to CRRC Nanjing Puzhen Co. Ltd for the supply of 90 coaches (15 train sets) equipped with communications-based train control (CBTC) signaling for the Yellow Line. To adhere to the ‘Make in India’ initiative, CRRC partnered with.
Titagarh Rail Systems Limited (TRSL) to manufacture at least 75% of the coaches domestically. While the prototype train set was produced in China, subsequent train sets are being assembled in India. The second train set, assembled by TRSL, arrived at the Hebbagodi depot on February 9, 2025, marking a significant step in local manufacturing efforts.
Challenges and Delays
The Yellow Line has experienced multiple delays, primarily due to construction challenges and delays in the delivery of rolling stock. Initially slated to open in December 2022, the timeline was subsequently pushed to June 2023, April 2024, and later to December 2024. The delays underscore the complexities involved in large-scale infrastructure projects and the critical importance of timely procurement and testing of essential components like rolling stock.
The statutory inspection of the driverless train for Bengaluru Metro’s Yellow Line signifies a pivotal step towards the line’s operationalization. With ongoing efforts to secure necessary approvals and complete final testing phases, the anticipated launch in April 2025 holds the promise of improved connectivity and a modernized commuting experience for Bengaluru’s residents.
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