BEML Limited on December 11 rolled out the prototype six-coach train for Namma Metro’s Pink Line, a 21-km corridor connecting Kalena Agrahara and Nagawara.
The test run at BEML rail complex was witnessed by Dr J Ravishankar, MD, BMRCL, in the presence of Shantanu Roy, CMD, BEML Ltd, along with senior leaders from both organisations. BEML will supply 318 standard-gauge metro cars, designed, engineered, and manufactured at its Bengaluru facility for Blue Line (Airport Line) and Pink Line.
The trainset will undergo a detailed programme of testing and commissioning in line with BMRCL’s timeline, followed by BEML's comprehensive maintenance support for up to 15 years. Officials said the prototype will be dispatched to the Kothanur depot after December 15 and will undergo at least five months of testing before deployment.
Also, read: Bengaluru Metro's Pink Line to start with 5 'driverless' trains by June
Features and specifications
The six-coach train can carry 2,008 passengers and features a stainless-steel car body measuring 2,762 mm wide and 3,800 mm tall. It combines regenerative and pneumatic braking and is designed for a top speed of 90 kmph, with an operational speed of 80 kmph. Key features include modern interiors, energy-efficient systems, wide gangways for seamless passenger movement, USB charging ports, ergonomic seating, improved accessibility, and compliance with advanced fire safety and international safety standards. The train is fully driverless-capable, compatible with CBTC (Communication-Based Train Control).
“This rollout marks a major step in executing the Rs 3,177-crore contract awarded to BEML. The prototype reflects our growing contribution to India’s metro ecosystem, especially in driverless urban transit systems,” said Shantanu Roy, CMD, BEML. “This milestone demonstrates our commitment to delivering next-generation mobility solutions for rapidly growing cities like Bengaluru,” he adds. Ravishankar said, “The rollout confirms BEML’s commitment to providing state-of-the-art trainsets that will enhance commuting on the Pink Line and ORR Airport Line.”
Delivery timeline and operations
The elevated 7.5-km section from Kalena Agrahara to Tavarekere is expected to open with five driverless trains by June 2026, while the 13.7-km underground stretch between Dairy Circle and Nagawara is slated for December 2026. The full corridor will have 23 trainsets, operating from 5 am to midnight, with trains every 4.5 minutes during peak hours and every eight minutes during non-peak periods. Recently, BEML secured additional orders worth Rs 414 crore for six driverless trainsets for Phase 2 (Yellow Line) and Rs 405 crore in March 2025 for 42 additional cars for Pink Line, bringing total supply to 66 trainsets (396 cars). BEML is the largest rolling stock supplier to Bengaluru Metro, having previously supplied trains for the Green and Purple lines.
Also, read: Light at the end of the tunnel? Bengaluru Metro's Pink Line likely to be ready by next year
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