BMRCL Commences Third Rail Power Tests on Pink Metro Line.

The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has commenced vital 'third rail' testing on the elevated section of its upcoming Pink Line, specifically between Jayadeva and Tavarekere metro stations. This critical electrification trial, which provides power to the locomotives, marks the initial phase in a series of mandatory tests required before the entire corridor, stretching from Kalena Agrahara to Nagawara, becomes operational.

Currently, the testing is confined to the elevated portion of the line. As a safety precaution, BMRCL has issued a public advisory, strictly warning against unauthorized access to the viaduct areas during this crucial testing phase.

A BMRCL official confirmed that upon completion of the third rail testing, subsequent stages will involve signal system validation, telecommunication trials, and loading tests. These technical assessments are projected to span approximately four months. Following their conclusion, safety inspection reports will be submitted to the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS), whose thorough review will provide the final approval for commercial operations.

Phased Launch Planned for 21.2-Km Corridor

The 21.2-km Pink Line is slated for a phased launch. Phase one covers a 7.5-km elevated stretch from Kalena Agrahara to Tavarekere, encompassing six stations: Kalena Agrahara, Hulimavu, IIMB, JP Nagar 4th Phase, Jayadeva Hospital, and Tavarekere. The second phase, a 13.76-km underground corridor from Dairy Circle to Nagawara with 12 stations, is expected to be commissioned at a later date.

While civil works on the elevated section are complete and nearly 90% of the underground section is finished, the timely start of operations hinges significantly on the availability of coaches. This factor had previously caused delays in the Yellow Line's launch. To mitigate this, BMRCL has inked a contract with BEML for the supply of 138 coaches, which will form 23 six-car trains. Each coach is priced at ₹9.99 crore, covering ₹7.74 crore for manufacturing and ₹1.3 crore for 15 years of maintenance. Although BMRCL aims to launch the elevated stretch by mid-2026, this target remains contingent on the punctual delivery and integration of the new rolling stock.