Alstom wins ₹857 crore CBTC Signaling & PSD Contract of Bangalore Metro Phase 2

Bengaluru, India (Metro Rail Today): In a significant development for Bangalore's ever-expanding metro network, Alstom Transport India emerged victorious as the lowest bidder for Package 10 S&T-DM, encompassing Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) signaling and Platform Screen Door (PSD) systems. This contract spans the extensive Phase 2, 2A, and 2B projects, covering a total length of 73.92 km.

The ambitious Package 10 S&T-DM involves the installation of cutting-edge CBTC signaling and train control systems, coupled with platform screen door/gate systems. This comprehensive solution aims to enhance the safety and efficiency of Bangalore Metro's operations. The project also includes the essential training of personnel and annual maintenance for up to five years across two crucial lines – the 21 km Pink Line (Reach 6) and the 56 km Blue Line (ORR Line & Airport Line).

The synchronized operation of these systems is pivotal for the upcoming fleet of 53 x 6-coach BEML trains, a key component of the ongoing Phase 2’s 5RS-DM rolling stock contract.

A noteworthy feature of this endeavor is the deployment of full-height platform screen doors (PSDs) at 13 underground stations, while 37 elevated or at-grade stations will be equipped with half-height platform screen gates (PSGs). The distribution spans across the three phases:

• Phase 2 - Pink Line (Nagawara – Kalena Agrahara): 6 elevated stations with PSGs & 12 underground stations with PSDs
• Phase 2A - Blue Line (Central Silk Board – KR Puram): 13 elevated stations with PSGs
• Phase 2B - Blue Line (KR Puram – KIAL Airport): 17 elevated stations & 1 at-grade station with PSGs, and 1 underground station with PSD

The financial bids for this crucial project were submitted by three prominent firms: Alstom Transport, Siemens India, and Nippon Signal. Alstom Transport emerged with the most favorable bid at 857 Crore INR. The scope of their contract encompasses the design, manufacture, supply, installation, testing, and commissioning of signaling & train control and platform screen door/gate systems. Additionally, the contract includes personnel training and annual maintenance for up to five years under Bangalore Metro Rail Project Phase-2, Phase-2A, and Phase-2B.

This substantial contract will be funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), following a 3,717 Crore INR loan agreement signed with the Government of India in March 2021. The agreement encompasses critical systems procurement, including rolling stock, CBTC signaling, and platform screen doors. Anticipating the contract award, it's noteworthy that Alstom's bid, in comparison to competitors, positions them favorably for this lucrative opportunity. The contract includes a 2-year Defect Notification Period (DNP) / Defect Liability period (DLP) and a subsequent 5-year Annual Maintenance Contract (AMC) covering breakdown/corrective maintenance and repair of PCB/modules on a 24/7 basis.

The Pink Line (Kalena Agrahara – Nagawara) of Phase 2, spanning 21.38 km, is currently in the most advanced stage of construction. Despite tendering and construction delays, commercial operations on the Pink Line are projected to commence no sooner than Q4 2025.

Alstom's triumph in securing the CBTC signaling & PSD contract marks a pivotal step in advancing Bangalore's metro infrastructure. As the city gears up for the transformative Phase 2 expansion, this strategic move positions Alstom as a key player in shaping the future of urban transportation.