Bengaluru’s Pink Line Gets Electrified: Third Rail Sparks a Metro Revolution

The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has begun the formal third rail electrification trials on the much-awaited Pink Line, marking the milestone in the city's expanding metro network. This milestone brings Bengaluru one step closer to enhanced north-south connectivity and ensures relief for the regular commuter who needs to navigate the city's notorious traffic jams.

 

Key Highlights

Third Rail Testing Ongoing:

BMRCL has begun a trial of the third rail on the elevated track between Kalena Agrahara and Tavarekere as part of the process of making the systems operational. The third rail will supply power to the new metro trains.

 

Phased Launch Strategy:

The 21.2-km Pink Line will be inaugurated in two phases:

 

Phase 1: 7.5 km elevated track (Kalena Agrahara to Tavarekere) with six stations.

 

Phase 2: 13.76 km long subterranean tunnel (Dairy Circle to Nagawara) with 12 stations, to be opened later.

 

Coach Supply Crucial:

BEML will supply 138 coaches (23 six-car trains) at ₹9.99 crore per coach with 15 years' maintenance. On-time delivery is crucial as coach shortages have put other lines off track earlier.

 

Testing & Safety Timeline:

Following third rail tests, BMRCL will carry out signalling, telecommunication, and load tests within four months. Reports of safety inspections will then be placed before the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) for clearance prior to the commencement of passenger operations.

 

Civil Works Status:

High section civil construction is completed; 90% of the underground section is completed. The first stage is slated for a mid-2026 opening, followed by the underground component.

 

Metro Ridership Booms:

Despite a recent fare increase, Namma Metro ridership is rising, with a record 9.08 lakh riders in a single day in April 2025, reflecting growing public confidence in metro connectivity. 

 

Source: Bangalore Mirror,  IBC World News, Hindustan Times, The Metro Rail Guy, 29 March 2025