Namma Metro: First Driverless Train for Yellow Line Arrives in Chennai Port

After a long wait, the inaugural train from China destined for Namma Metro’s Yellow Line (RV Road-Bommasandra) has finally arrived at Chennai port.

This special prototype of a driverless train, equipped with communication-based train control (CBTC), is set to make its way to the Hebbagodi depot near Electronics City by February 18.

BMRCL’s chief spokesperson, BL Yeshwanth Chavan, informed TOI, “Customs clearance usually takes around 3-4 days, following which the coaches will be transported to Bengaluru. Upon arrival, they will be assembled at the depot, and a series of tests will be conducted before the train undergoes dynamic testing on the tracks.”

“Given that this is a new train, we need to conduct 14 rigorous tests for the main lines, followed by signaling tests. A total of 37 tests must be completed before we seek approval from the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety. Additionally, according to regulations, we must obtain technical approvals from Research Designs and Standards Organizations (RDSO), the Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety, and the Railway Board at different stages,” Chavan explained.

He further mentioned that it will take a minimum of 4-5 months to complete these tests, with authorization from CMRS to follow later. Technical experts from China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation (CRRC) will be actively involved in the testing process.

CRRC has already delivered two train car body shells to their local manufacturing partner, Titagarh Rail System Limited, for outfitting. The delivery of these two trains is anticipated in May. Commercial operations are expected to commence around August or September.

After a long wait, the inaugural train from China destined for Namma Metro’s Yellow Line (RV Road-Bommasandra) has finally arrived at Chennai port.

This special prototype of a driverless train, equipped with communication-based train control (CBTC), is set to make its way to the Hebbagodi depot near Electronics City by February 18.

BMRCL’s chief spokesperson, BL Yeshwanth Chavan, informed TOI, “Customs clearance usually takes around 3-4 days, following which the coaches will be transported to Bengaluru. Upon arrival, they will be assembled at the depot, and a series of tests will be conducted before the train undergoes dynamic testing on the tracks.”

“Given that this is a new train, we need to conduct 14 rigorous tests for the main lines, followed by signaling tests. A total of 37 tests must be completed before we seek approval from the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety. Additionally, according to regulations, we must obtain technical approvals from Research Designs and Standards Organizations (RDSO), the Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety, and the Railway Board at different stages,” Chavan explained.

He further mentioned that it will take a minimum of 4-5 months to complete these tests, with authorization from CMRS to follow later. Technical experts from China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation (CRRC) will be actively involved in the testing process.

CRRC has already delivered two train car body shells to their local manufacturing partner, Titagarh Rail System Limited, for outfitting. The delivery of these two trains is anticipated in May. Commercial operations are expected to commence around August or September.