CMRS inspects Driverless Train Prototype for Bangalore Metro Yellow Line

Bengaluru, India (Metro Rail Today): The Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) conducted an inspection on Monday of the driverless train prototype for Bengaluru’s Namma Metro, set to be introduced on the Yellow Line soon. This inspection is a significant step as the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (BMRCL) prepares to seek further approvals from the Railway Ministry before officially launching the train. The introduction of this driverless train is expected to revolutionize Bengaluru's public transportation system.

In a statement, BMRCL explained that the CMRS team carried out the mandatory statutory inspection of the driverless trains received from CRRC for the Yellow Line, which stretches from RV Road to Bommasandra. This inspection is a crucial requirement before BMRCL can approach the Railway Ministry to seek approval for the new rolling stock.

Driverless Technology Set to Transform Bengaluru's Metro Network

The Yellow Line, which spans approximately 19 kilometers and includes 16 stations, will connect the Bommasandra area with the high-traffic Central Silk Board, significantly easing congestion and enhancing connectivity across the city. The driverless train is expected to be operational later this year, with plans for additional units to be added to BMRCL’s fleet in the future.

CRRC Nanjing Puzhen Co Ltd, which won the contract to supply 216 coaches to BMRCL, provided the driverless prototype. The train was delivered from China in February of last year and assembled in Electronics City under the supervision of Chinese engineers.

A Rigorous Testing Process

Before the official launch, BMRCL had previously announced that the driverless train would undergo 37 different tests. These tests, which will be completed over a span of four months, include static and electrical circuit testing, followed by mainline testing and system integration with the metro's signaling, telecommunications, and power supply systems.

BMRCL emphasized that multiple tests are necessary due to the new rolling stock, and the train’s safety, performance, and compatibility with existing infrastructure must be thoroughly validated before service can commence.

The introduction of Bengaluru’s first driverless metro train marks an exciting milestone in the city's efforts to modernize its public transport system and improve the daily commute for thousands of residents.