First Trial Run of Bengaluru’s Pink Line Metro Hits Tracks: What You Need To Know

Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited has started testing the prototype trainset for the Pink Line. Preliminary trials were conducted on Friday on the elevated stretch between Kalena Agrahara and Tavarekere along Bannerghatta Road. The prototype trainset was delivered by BEML in December.

During the initial trial run, the prototype train was operated at a very slow speed on the mainline. The testing took place between Kalena Agrahara and Tavarekere and marked the first step in evaluating the train’s performance under real track conditions.

Under Phase 2 of Namma Metro, the Pink Line will span 21 km from Kalena Agrahara to Nagawara. The corridor includes a 13-km underground section between Dairy Circle and Nagawara, with the remaining stretch being elevated.

BMRCL is targeting mid-2026 for opening the elevated stretch between Kalena Agrahara and Tavarekere. The full Pink Line corridor, including underground sections, is scheduled for completion by December 2026, subject to timely completion of all works.

According to BMRCL officials, the testing and certification process for the prototype trainset will take around six months. This phase will be followed by statutory approvals from multiple agencies before commercial passenger operations can begin on the Pink Line.

In the coming days, BMRCL will carry out rolling stock-related tests in a phased manner. These tests will assess different aspects of the train’s performance and safety, ensuring compliance with required technical and operational standards before approvals are granted.

he testing programme includes traction and braking trials, oscillation tests at various speeds, and integration checks. These tests will ensure proper coordination between the trainsets and systems such as signalling, power supply and telecommunications.

BEML is expected to deliver the second Pink Line trainset by the end of January. By March, a total of six trainsets are scheduled to be supplied. These deliveries are part of a larger rolling stock contract for Phase 2 corridors.

Mainline testing is a crucial pre-commissioning activity. It helps validate train performance and system integration under actual field conditions. This step is mandatory to secure statutory clearances needed to operate Metro services on the Pink Line.

BMRCL officials said civil works on the elevated Pink Line section are at an advanced stage. Signalling works are currently in progress. Once testing, system integration and approvals are completed, the corridor will be ready for phased operational launch.