Delay in Yellow Line launch as metro coaches from China face setbacks
RAILWAYS & METRO RAIL

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

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).

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).

Next Story
Infrastructure Transport

Siemens-Led Consortium Wins Rs 41 Billion Bullet Train Signal Contract

A Siemens-led consortium has secured a major ₹41 billion contract to develop the signalling and telecom systems for India’s first bullet train, running between Mumbai and Ahmedabad. This strategic award marks the launch of technology deployment essential to enabling high-speed rail travel in India.The deal encompasses design, supply, installation, testing and commissioning of an advanced European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2, along with associated GSM-R telecom infrastructure. These elements will ensure safe and reliable operations at speeds of up to 320 km/h.The consortium brin..

Next Story
Infrastructure Transport

150 Locomotives from Bihar to Power Guinea Project

India's Marhowrah Diesel Locomotive Factory in Bihar has secured a landmark export order to supply 150 Evolution Series diesel locomotives to Guinea in West Africa. The deal, valued at approximately Rs 30 billion (USD 360 million), positions India as a rising exporter of rail equipment.The first locomotive was flagged off on 20 June 2025 by the Prime Minister during a ceremony in Siwan, marking the first-ever export of Indian-built diesel engines to Africa. These 4,500-horsepower locomotives, part of a joint venture with Wabtec, will serve the TransGuinéen Railway supporting Guinea’s Simand..

Next Story
Infrastructure Transport

Mumbai–Jalna Vande Bharat Extended to Nanded

The Mumbai–Jalna Vande Bharat Express has been extended to Nanded, providing enhanced connectivity for Sikh pilgrims visiting the revered Hazur Sahib gurdwara. This extension is expected to significantly improve the travel experience for thousands of devotees and general passengers alike.The upgraded service commences from Nanded Junction, making stops at key stations including Latur Road, Parbhani, Jalna, Aurangabad, Manmad, Nashik Road, Igatpuri, Kalyan, and terminating at Mumbai CSMT. This direct route not only saves time but also eliminates the need for multiple train changes, providing ..

Advertisement

Advertisement

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world.

STAY CONNECTED

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Talk to us?