Trial Runs Starts On Bengaluru's Yellow Line As Namma Metro Deploys Driverless Train

Bengaluru witnessed a surprise development on Thursday evening as Namma Metro initiated trial runs on the long-awaited Yellow Line in southern Bengaluru. The much-anticipated trial saw the deployment of a Chinese-made, driverless train, marking a significant milestone for the city's metro system.

Originally scheduled to commence over the weekend, the trial run caught commuters and metro enthusiasts off guard as the six-coach prototype train embarked on its journey. Departing from the Hebbagodi metro depot's Inspection Bay Line-1 at precisely 6:55 pm, the train made its way to the Bommasandra station, approximately 1.3 km away, before 7:14 pm.

According to Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation (BMRCL), the train started its journey at a cautious speed of 10 kmph, gradually accelerating to a maximum speed of 25 kmph. Following a brief stopover, the train continued its route towards Bommanahalli, covering a distance of 12.5 km.

During its journey, the train made stops at various stations along the route, including Biocon Hebbagodi, Huskur Road, Infosys Konappana Agrahara, Electronics City, Beratena Agrahara, Hosa Road, Singasandra, Kudlu Gate, and Hongasandra.

Upon completing its journey to Bommasandra and back, the train arrived at its destination at 9:11 pm, as confirmed by BMRCL officials.

Engineers from the Chinese train manufacturer CRRC Nanjing Puzhen, along with representatives from BMRCL's rolling stock, signalling, and track maintenance departments, were present onboard the train to oversee the testing process.

Jitendra Jha, BMRCL's Project Manager for Rolling Stock, had previously informed reporters about the extensive efforts undertaken to prepare the Yellow Line track for the trial run. He emphasised the importance of ensuring a smooth testing process by addressing any potential obstacles along the route.

The driverless train is equipped with advanced Communications Based Train Control (CBTC) technology, eliminating the need for a traditional loco pilot. This technology enables seamless integration with the signalling system, allowing trains to communicate with each other and prevent collisions, enhancing safety and efficiency on the metro network.

The commencement of trial runs on the Yellow Line represents a significant step forward in Bengaluru's metro infrastructure development, promising improved connectivity and enhanced passenger experience in the future.