• Source:JND
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Bengaluru Metro: The long-anticipated Yellow Line of Namma Metro is preparing for an important inspection after facing numerous delays primarily due to issues with metro coach deliveries. The Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) is scheduled to evaluate the first driverless train assigned to this corridor, which recently arrived from China, on February 24. If approved, the Yellow Line's driverless trains could begin operations by April 2024, transforming Bengaluru’s metro system.

According to The Hindu report, the Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) received its first batch of six train coaches from China on February 14, 2024. These coaches have been delivered to the Hebbagodi metro depot. A senior BMRCL official confirmed that the driverless train has successfully completed several internal tests and is now ready for the CMRS inspection. “The CMRS has reviewed all necessary documents and will inspect the train on February 24. However, this inspection is solely for the train itself, while a comprehensive assessment of the Yellow Line is planned for the end of March,” the official noted.

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Namma Metro: Shift To Driverless Technology With CBTC System

The rollout of driverless trains is part of a shift from the current Distance-To-Go (DTG) signalling system to a new Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) system, which enables driverless technology. This transition is a first for the Bengaluru Metro and the new system is expected to significantly reduce the time interval between trains from the current two-and-a-half minutes to just 90 seconds. To ensure a smooth transition, BMRCL plans to initially use locomotive pilots to operate the trains.

Bengaluru Metro Yellow Line From R.V. Road To Bommasandra

Stretching 19.15 km, the Yellow Line will connect R.V. Road to Bommasandra, serving key locations including Electronics City. Although the corridor has been structurally completed for some time, the delayed arrival of the driverless trains has postponed its launch. The line will feature 16 fully elevated stations and will connect with the Green Line at R.V. Road Station and the Pink Line at Jayadeva Hospital Station. The Yellow Line aims to enhance connectivity to major corporate hubs such as Infosys and Biocon, benefiting residents in South Bengaluru.

The delays in the Yellow Line’s rollout stem from a Rs 1,578-crore contract awarded in 2019 to the China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation (CRRC) for 216 metro coaches. CRRC struggled to establish a required manufacturing plant in India, leading to significant disruptions in deliveries. In response, BMRCL issued several notices to CRRC and considered invoking a Rs 372-crore bank guarantee. The Chinese company has since partnered with Kolkata-based Titagarh Wagons to supply the remaining coaches.

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Bengaluru Metro: Driverless Yellow Line Trains Expected By April 2024

Before commercial operations can begin, the driverless trains must undergo around 37 tests, which include system integration with signalling, telecommunications and power supply networks. “Safety assessments will involve Oscillation Trials conducted by the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO), followed by the CMRS inspection. Based on their recommendations, final approval from the Railway Board is necessary before passenger services can commence,” explained a BMRCL official. According to The Hindu report, if all approvals are granted, the driverless trains on the Yellow Line could be operational by April this year.