Karnataka: Driverless metro signals test starts June 7

31 May 2024 CW Team

These tests are part of the mainline testing of the driverless train. They mentioned that commercial operations on the RV Road-Bommasandra Line (Yellow Line) will proceed as planned and are set to launch in December.

Initially, BMRCL plans to schedule a trip every 20 minutes, with a total of 57 onward and return trips daily on the 18.82 km elevated line, which has all 16 stations and necessary infrastructure ready. However, the anticipated launch has been delayed due to the supply delay of communications-based train control (CBTC) trains from the Chinese firm, CRRC Nanjing Puzhen.

TNIE was granted exclusive access to the operations bay of the Hebbagodi depot, where the train from Shanghai, which arrived on February 14 via Chennai, is undergoing various static tests. A Metro source mentioned, "Static tests are conducted when the train is stationary. They include signal and software checks, wiring, some interface (communication between different equipment), and functional checks. We have almost completed them."

A simple test run of the driverless train was conducted between Bommasandra and Bommanahalli upon its arrival. The energization of the stretch between Bommanahalli and RV Road was finished on May 20. As a result, mainline testing can now be conducted on the entire stretch.

In addition to signal integration, third rail (the 750 Volt track that supplies power to run the train) and train performance tests will be carried out. Another source mentioned, "The train will be operated at a slow speed initially and later at the recommended speeds." They added that the CBTC train can be operated with or without an operator.

Titagarh Rail Systems in West Bengal, the Indian partner of CRRC, has established a robotic automatic assembly line to ensure timely delivery of trains to Bengaluru Metro.

"Join industry leaders at RAHSTA Expo, India's premier platform for roads, highways and traffic infrastructure. Register now to explore innovations, network with experts and shape the future of mobility."

The completion of stationary testing for the first unmanned train to be operated by BMRCL indicates that the integration tests concerning the signaling system with the prototype train are scheduled to begin on June 7. These tests are part of the mainline testing of the driverless train. They mentioned that commercial operations on the RV Road-Bommasandra Line (Yellow Line) will proceed as planned and are set to launch in December. Initially, BMRCL plans to schedule a trip every 20 minutes, with a total of 57 onward and return trips daily on the 18.82 km elevated line, which has all 16 stations and necessary infrastructure ready. However, the anticipated launch has been delayed due to the supply delay of communications-based train control (CBTC) trains from the Chinese firm, CRRC Nanjing Puzhen. TNIE was granted exclusive access to the operations bay of the Hebbagodi depot, where the train from Shanghai, which arrived on February 14 via Chennai, is undergoing various static tests. A Metro source mentioned, Static tests are conducted when the train is stationary. They include signal and software checks, wiring, some interface (communication between different equipment), and functional checks. We have almost completed them. A simple test run of the driverless train was conducted between Bommasandra and Bommanahalli upon its arrival. The energization of the stretch between Bommanahalli and RV Road was finished on May 20. As a result, mainline testing can now be conducted on the entire stretch. In addition to signal integration, third rail (the 750 Volt track that supplies power to run the train) and train performance tests will be carried out. Another source mentioned, The train will be operated at a slow speed initially and later at the recommended speeds. They added that the CBTC train can be operated with or without an operator. Titagarh Rail Systems in West Bengal, the Indian partner of CRRC, has established a robotic automatic assembly line to ensure timely delivery of trains to Bengaluru Metro.

Infrastructure Transport

29 Jun 2026

Third Railway Line Between Tatanagar And Adityapur Likely By September

The third railway line between Tatanagar and Adityapur is expected to be commissioned by September as work on the corridor advances, according to railway sources. The project to add a fourth line on the busy route is progressing and has been allocated Rs 50.89 billion (bn) in funding. The allocation underscores the focus on increasing capacity and easing congestion on the corridor. Relevant timetables are being adjusted to integrate the new capacity into regular operations. Construction activity has involved track laying, formation work and signalling upgrades along strategic stretches, with m..

Infrastructure Transport

29 Jun 2026

Indian Railways Approves Rs 2.7 bn Kavach Rollout in Odisha

Indian Railways has approved a Rs 2.7 billion (Rs 2.7 bn) plan to install the Kavach train collision avoidance system on 631 route kilometres in the East Coast Railway zone. The Ministry of Railways said the work will form part of a wider Kavach deployment programme that relies on an LTE based communication backbone rather than a standalone installation. The approval marks the latest stage in the steady expansion of the indigenous safety technology across the national network. The decision aims to enhance safety and reliability on corridors serving Odisha and adjoining areas. The project will ..

Infrastructure Transport

29 Jun 2026

Indian Railways Accelerates Modernisation Drive

Indian Railways utilised nearly 30 per cent of its capital expenditure budget for FY2026-27 within the first two months of the financial year, spending more than Rs 840 billion (bn) in April and May against a planned outlay of Rs 2.93 trillion (tn) for the year. The Union Budget allocated Rs 2.93 tn in total capex, comprising Rs 2.81 tn through gross budgetary support and Rs 120 bn from extra-budgetary resources. The early absorption indicates robust project execution and an aggressive infrastructure push. A significant share of the spending is being channelled towards track infrastructure, in..