The Bengaluru’s first-ever driverless Metro train has arrived in India from China, as per reports. The train, which reached the Chennai port on Tuesday, is set to revolutionize transportation on Namma Metro’s Yellow line, currently under construction.
The delivery marks the culmination of a contract awarded in 2019 to CRCC Nanjing Puzhen Co Ltd, securing the supply of 216 coaches to the Bengaluru Metro Rail Transport Corporation Limited (BMRCL) along with this groundbreaking prototype train. Once customs clearance is obtained, the train will be transported to Bengaluru for assembly at Electronics City, under the supervision of a team of Chinese engineers.
Upon assembly, the prototype train will undergo trial runs along the Yellow line, slated to connect RV Road with Bommasandra via Silk Board. These trials are crucial steps towards ensuring the safety and efficacy of the driverless technology, with a comprehensive report to be submitted to the Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety (CCRS) following the trials.
BMRCL anticipates the arrival of two more driverless trains by May, with subsequent deliveries of two trains per month starting from June. Operating at a frequency of 90 seconds, each coach of the driverless trains measures 21 meters in length, promising enhanced efficiency and reliability for commuters.
The Yellow Line, spanning roughly 19 kilometers with 16 stations between Bommasandra and RV Road, holds the promise of alleviating traffic congestion in the city, particularly in the heavily congested Central Silk Board area. Despite expectations for the line’s launch this month, delays in pending construction work may postpone the official commencement.
