Bengaluru: BMRCL bolsters Pink Line with 42 new coaches ahead of 2026 launch

In preparation for the 2026 launch of Bengaluru’s Pink Line connecting Kalena Agrahara and Nagawara, the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has expanded its coach procurement plan by adding 42 new coaches, equivalent to seven trains. This strategic move is aimed at preventing operational delays and shortages that have plagued other metro lines during expansion.

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The ₹405-crore agreement with BEML will see the new coaches integrated with the advanced Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) system, paving the way for smoother, driverless operations. These additions will supplement the existing order placed in 2023, which included 318 coaches (53 trains) for the Pink and Blue lines.

The Pink Line expansion comes as the Purple and Green Lines continue to grapple with coach shortages, impacting timelines for other key projects like the Yellow Line to Electronic City. By increasing the coach count now, BMRCL aims to avoid similar setbacks.

Each new coach will cost ₹19.64 crore, more cost-efficient than the previous tender that included maintenance. The coaches will feature air conditioning, enhanced passenger information systems, and safety upgrades including Platform Screen Door Systems. Manufacturing will take place at BEML’s Bengaluru facility, further supporting local industry.

The project is backed by funding from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), which has committed ₹3,177 crore for metro infrastructure enhancements.