BMRCL orders additional metro coaches for Pink Line network expansion
BMRCL
This deal is one of the largest coach procurements for BMRCL, with new trains featuring driverless tech and advanced safety
–BMRCL official
To address the shortage of trains and ensure smooth operations for Phase-2 metro expansions,has signed an agreement with BEML to procure 42 additional coaches (equivalent to seven trains) for the upcoming Pink Line. The ₹405-crore deal aims to prevent train shortages when the Pink Line becomes operational in 2026.The operational Purple and Green Lines are currently facing a shortage of trains, which has also delayed the launch of the Yellow Line connecting to Electronic City.Anticipating similar challenges for the Pink Line between Kalena Agrahara and Nagawara (21.76 km), BMRCL has decided to augment its fleet. In 2023, BMRCL signed a major agreement with BEML to supply 318 coaches (53 trains) for the Blue Line (2A and 2B) connecting to Kempegowda International Airport, and the Pink Line. Of these, 96 coaches were initially earmarked for the Pink Line. To further strengthen the fleet, BMRCL has now extended the previous order to include seven more trains.A BMRCL official said, 'This deal marks one of the largest coach procurement contracts for BMRCL. The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has provided funding support of ₹3,177 crore for the project. The new coaches will feature the latest CBTC (Communications-Based Train Control) technology, enabling driverless operations, and will be built using austenitic stainless steel. Each six-coach train will have two air-conditioning systems per coach, advanced passenger information systems (PIS), high safety features, and superior interior designs.'As per the agreement, each newly added coach will cost ₹19.64 crore, compared to ₹29.99 crore per coach in the earlier tender, which included supply and 15 years of maintenance. For the Blue Line project alone, 96 coaches have been designated for the Central Silk Board–KR Puram (2A) section and 126 coaches for the KR Puram–Airport (2B) stretch. Additional features include Platform Screen Door System (PSDS) integration for enhanced safety, LCD route maps, and automatic electric doors. The coaches will be manufactured at BEML's Metro Rail Shed in Bengaluru, further boosting the city's metro infrastructure, BMRCL official added.
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