Delay in Yellow Line launch as metro coaches from China face setbacks

25 Jan 2024 CW Team

The completion of the Yellow Line construction for Namma Metro is imminent; however, commuters will face a significant delay in the launch of the service, anticipated to be extended by six months.

The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation (BMRCL) attributes the delay to the late arrival of metro coaches from China. The root cause is the requirement for engineers from the coach supply company to accompany two prototype trains, a process hindered until their recent receipt of Indian visas.

In 2019, the China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation (CRRC) secured a Rs 15.78 billion contract to deliver 216 metro coaches to BMRCL. Their failure to establish a manufacturing plant in India, as stipulated, led to an unfulfilled contract.

A senior BMRCL official explained, "Upon receiving the prototype train, a minimum of three months will be needed for BMRCL to conduct trial runs and obtain approvals for commercial operations. The prototype coaches have been dispatched from China, and engineers are scheduled to arrive in Bengaluru for testing by the end of this month."

The launch of Yellow Line operations is further hindered by the anticipated enforcement of the model code of conduct for general elections in April?May. Operations may commence in July after testing the coaches, ensuring a seamless interface between the trainset and signaling systems, and conducting oscillation trials through the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO).

Previously, BMRCL had considered encashing the Rs 3.72 billion bank guarantee from CRRC and has now engaged Kolkata-based Titagarh Wagons to supply the remaining coaches.

The 19-km elevated Yellow Line, connecting R.V. Road to Bommasandra, will alleviate traffic congestion and benefit commuters in Electronics City, the Bommasandra industrial area, HSR Layout, and Beratena Agrahara (Hosa Road).

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