Banaglore Metro receives first Driverless Trainset for Yellow Line from CRRC China

Bengaluru, India (Metro Rail Today): After experiencing prolonged delays, the eagerly awaited prototype of Bengaluru Metro's first driverless train for the Yellow Line (RV Road - Bommasandra) has finally arrived at the Chennai port on February 6. The prototype, a six-coach train destined for the Electronics City Metro line, embarked on its journey from the Shanghai port on January 24. This development marks a significant step forward for the Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) and the Yellow Line, a crucial corridor linking South Bengaluru with Electronics City.

BMRCL officials have confirmed the safe arrival of the prototype train at the Chennai port, with unloading scheduled for February 7. Following customs clearance, the train will be transported by road to Bengaluru, specifically to the Hebbagodi depot near Electronics City. The transportation is expected to occur at night, with an anticipated arrival at the depot around February 18.

BL Yashwanth Chavan, BMRCL's Chief Public Relations Officer, highlighted the procedural steps ahead. "It has to undergo customs clearance, which will take around five days. Once it reaches Hebbagodi, it needs to be assembled before moving to the test track for static and electrical circuits testing. Later, it will be moved to the mainline for around 15 tests," explained Chavan.

The journey from arrival to operational readiness involves a comprehensive testing and approval process. The prototype will undergo multiple tests lasting four months, followed by signaling tests lasting 45 days. Additionally, Research Designs & Standards Organisation (RDSO) trials, approvals from Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety (CCRS), Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS), and the railway board are essential steps before commercial operations commence.

The delays in receiving the rolling stock from China were attributed to various factors. CRRC Nanjing Puzhen Co. Ltd., the Chinese company responsible for supplying the coaches, faced challenges in identifying a local manufacturer, impacting compliance with the 75 percent local production requirement under the 'Make in India' initiative. Complications arising from COVID-19, foreign direct investment policies, and trade restrictions with China further contributed to the delays.

To overcome these challenges, CRRC collaborated with Kolkata-based Titagarh Rail for the manufacturing and supply of the coaches. Titagarh Rail is set to produce the remaining 204 coaches, with the commitment to deliver all 216 coaches to BMRCL by March 2025.

BMRCL officials acknowledged the need for six to seven trains to be supplied by CRRC and Titagarh before operations on the Yellow Line can commence. Testing, trial runs, and the availability of spare trains for maintenance purposes are integral to ensuring a smooth transition into commercial operations.

The delay in coach delivery has resulted in overcrowding on Bengaluru's operational lines, impacting not only the Yellow Line but also the Green Line extension. As the prototype arrives and undergoes testing, Bengaluru anticipates improved metro services, addressing the growing transportation needs of its residents.

The arrival of the first driverless train prototype for Bengaluru Metro's Yellow Line signifies a significant milestone for the city's expanding metro network. As the prototype progresses through testing and approvals, the prospect of enhanced connectivity and efficient transportation solutions comes closer to reality, addressing the challenges posed by delays and contributing to Bengaluru's evolving urban landscape.