Bangalore Metro is set to begin its first major mid-life overhaul of the original trains that have been running since the network opened in 2011. The refurbishment will initially focus on trains operating on the Purple and Green Lines, particularly those that have already covered more than 10 lakh kilometres. BMRCL (Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited) will inspect their mechanical, electrical and safety systems and replace worn components wherever necessary. The programme is aimed at keeping the older fleet reliable as newer CRRC-Titagarh trains gradually enter service.
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Older Bangalore Metro Trains To Undergo Detailed Inspection
Several of Bengaluru Metro’s oldest trains have now spent nearly 15 years in service. After such prolonged use, components across the trains require a detailed technical inspection to determine their remaining service life and identify parts that need repair or replacement.
The upcoming exercise will therefore go well beyond routine maintenance. BMRCL plans to inspect major mechanical, electrical and safety systems before deciding which components need refurbishment or replacement. This marks the first major mid-life overhaul of Bengaluru Metro’s original generation of rolling stock since commercial operations began in 2011.
The timing is also important because some of these trains have already travelled more than 10 lakh kilometres. With passenger demand remaining strong on the older corridors, maintaining the reliability of these trains is essential for uninterrupted services.
Green And Purple Lines Get Priority
The initial overhaul programme will cover trains operating on the Green and Purple Lines. Together, these two corridors currently have a fleet of 57 trains.
BMRCL is simultaneously adding new rolling stock to its fleet through the CRRC-Titagarh consortium. Four new trains have already arrived, while another 21 trains are expected to be added to the Green Line fleet in the coming period.
The arrival of these trains will give BMRCL more flexibility while the older trains are taken out of service. Instead of removing several ageing trains at once, the operator can send them for refurbishment in stages while using the newer trains to maintain regular passenger services.
There could also be some fleet reshuffling as the programme progresses. Some older trains currently operating on the Green Line may eventually be moved to the Purple Line. This would allow BMRCL to make better use of its available rolling stock while progressively sending trains for overhaul.
What Will The Mid-Life Overhaul Include?
The refurbishment will involve a detailed examination of each train. BMRCL will assess the condition of individual components and carry out repairs or replacements wherever required.
The inspection will cover the traction motors and drive systems that are responsible for moving the train. Electrical equipment, wiring, cables and batteries will also be checked because these systems are critical to both performance and reliability.
The mechanical systems will receive similar attention. Wheels, axles and braking components will be inspected for wear, while the doors and passenger safety mechanisms will be checked to ensure they continue to operate correctly.
Other systems, including air-conditioning and ventilation equipment, signalling and train-control systems, onboard electronics and critical safety equipment, will also be examined. Passenger-facing components such as seats, interiors and other coach equipment can also be repaired or renewed depending on their condition.
The basic objective is straightforward: components that are worn out, damaged or no longer suitable for continued service will be replaced after the technical assessment.
Each Train Will Spend Around 15 Days In Overhaul
BMRCL expects the refurbishment, maintenance work and associated testing to take around 15 days for each train. The operator will therefore carry out the programme in phases rather than sending several trains out of service at the same time.
The availability of additional trains will be particularly important here. The four CRRC-Titagarh trains already delivered, along with the 21 expected to join the Green Line, should provide BMRCL with enough additional flexibility to progressively withdraw older trains for maintenance.
This phased approach should help prevent a major impact on daily metro operations. Instead of treating the ageing fleet as a problem that requires immediate replacement, BMRCL can extend the useful life of the existing trains while gradually increasing the size of its newer fleet.
For passengers, the most important outcome will be reliability. The Purple and Green Lines remain critical parts of Bengaluru’s metro network, and keeping their older trains in good operating condition will become increasingly important as the network continues to expand and more people depend on the Metro for their daily journeys.
