BEML has officially commenced the manufacturing of driverless metro trains for Bangalore Metro’s Blue and Pink lines. The company started work on 318 new coaches, spread across 53 trains, for the city’s ongoing Phase 2, Phase 2A, and Phase 2B metro projects, which cover a total of 129.15 km.
The production launch took place at BEML’s facility in CV Raman Nagar, Bengaluru, and was attended by officials from Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. (BMRCL). The 53 six-car trains will be deployed on the 21 km Pink Line (Reach 6) and the 56 km Blue Line (ORR Line & Airport Line).
BMRCL awarded BEML the Rs 3,177 crore contract in August 2023. This project is funded by a Rs 3,717 crore loan from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), which covers critical systems like rolling stock, CBTC signaling, and platform screen doors.
The new lightweight train-sets will feature advanced technology, including the ability to operate without drivers, using Alstom’s CBTC signaling for Unattended Train Operations (UTO). Designed by BEML’s in-house engineering teams, the trains will be made from high-tensile stainless steel, ensuring durability, safety, and comfort.
Key features include roof-mounted air conditioners, an IP-based passenger announcement and information system, surveillance systems, and LCD-based dynamic route maps. The trains will also have automatic doors synchronized with platform screen doors, and ergonomically designed seats for passenger comfort.
The first prototype train is expected to roll out of BEML’s plant by Q2 2025, with the Pink Line likely to receive the first set. However, due to construction delays, commercial operations may not begin until mid-2026. This project represents one of the largest metro rolling stock contracts in recent times, rivaling major contracts like those for the Delhi and Mumbai metros.
