Bengaluru Metro Pink Line Gets First Driverless Train, When Can You Travel?

Last Updated:December 23, 2025, 11:33 IST

The train’s arrival is not symbolic. It signals the start of a long testing cycle that will examine braking systems, signalling compatibility, communication-based train control.

The Pink Line is being developed as part of the city’s larger metro expansion plan, with automation expected to improve service reliability, safety and operational efficiency. Image: BMRCL

Bengaluru’s long wait for the Pink Line has crossed an important operational milestone. The first driverless metro train meant for the corridor has reached the Kothanur Depot, marking a shift from construction and planning to testing and system integration. The six-coach train has been manufactured by Bharat Earth Movers Limited and will now undergo a series of rigorous safety and performance checks before it is cleared for trial runs.

This arrival is significant because it marks Bengaluru Metro’s first move towards fully automated train operations. While driverless metros are common in several global cities, this is a new phase for Namma Metro and will require extensive validation before public use.

Why this arrival matters for Bengaluru

The train’s arrival is not symbolic. It signals the start of a long testing cycle that will examine braking systems, signalling compatibility, communication-based train control and emergency response mechanisms. Every system will be tested repeatedly under controlled conditions at the Kothanur Depot.

The Pink Line is being developed as part of the city’s larger metro expansion plan, with automation expected to improve service reliability, safety and operational efficiency. Officials see driverless technology as essential for managing higher passenger volumes in the future without increasing operational strain.

Pink Line route and planned rollout

The Pink Line spans 21.3 kilometres, connecting Kalena Agrahara in south Bengaluru to Nagawara in the north. The corridor will have 13 stations and is expected to significantly cut travel time across some of the city’s busiest zones once fully operational.

Testing will begin on a 7.5 kilometre elevated stretch between Kalena Agrahara and Tavarekere, which has been prioritised as it is structurally ready. This section will allow engineers to test systems in a relatively controlled environment before extending trials to underground sections.

As per current targets, commercial operations on this stretch are planned for June 2026 with five driverless trains. The full Pink Line is expected to open to the public by the end of 2026, supported by a total fleet of 16 trains.

How the train reached Kothanur Depot

Transporting a metro train through Bengaluru is a logistical exercise that cannot be done during the day. Each coach was moved from the BEML complex in New Thippasandra to Kothanur Depot during late-night hours, covering a distance of about 20 kilometres.

City regulations restrict the movement of large trailers during daytime to avoid traffic disruption. As a result, officials coordinated the transport carefully, ensuring the coaches reached the depot safely without affecting regular traffic flow.

Features of the driverless trains

The new trains are built using stainless steel, chosen for durability and lower long-term maintenance requirements. They are designed to be energy efficient, with systems that optimise power consumption during acceleration and braking.

Passenger comfort has also been prioritised. The coaches feature wider gangways to improve movement during peak hours, thoughtfully designed seating layouts and USB charging ports. Safety systems are layered and integrated with automated controls, and each train will undergo multiple rounds of testing before certification.

Impact on Bengaluru’s daily commute

Once operational, the Pink Line is expected to ease pressure on several congested road corridors and provide predictable travel times for commuters who currently rely on buses or private vehicles. Areas along the route are expected to see improved connectivity and reduced dependence on surface traffic.

However, experienced commuters are aware that testing, certification and system integration can take time. While timelines are in place, officials have indicated that safety and reliability will take precedence over speed.

A visible step forward

The Pink Line has faced delays and challenges, leading to frustration among commuters. The arrival of the first driverless train, however, represents tangible progress. With physical rolling stock now at the depot, the project has moved beyond drawings and tunnels into a critical operational phase.

For Bengaluru, this is not the end of the journey, but it is a clear sign that the Pink Line is finally gathering momentum.

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