With trials on Namma Metro’s Green Line progressing on schedule, officials of Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation (BMRCL) are hopeful that the entire line could be commissioned in the second half of May.
BMRCL had earlier promised to start services in April.
At present, trials are being carried out in the yet-to-be commissioned sections between Sampige Road and National College, and on the overground section between National College and Yelachanahalli.
Sources said that trials would be completed by April 25, paving the way for commencement of safety inspections.
“We expect to be ready for an inspection by the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) by the last week of April,” said Pradeep Singh Kharola, Managing Director, BMRCL.
Going by past inspections by the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS), clearance may be accorded in a few days’ time, if no fault is highlighted.
In April last year, the CRS began safety inspection of the underground stretch on the Purple Line on April 5. BMRCL launched operations on April 30.
Generally, once the CRS gives the go-ahead, the central government approves the commissioning of services.
At present, according to a schedule of tests released by BMRCL, the stretch will see low speed and high speed dynamic tests followed by a multiple train test and an anti collision test is scheduled for April 20. This will be followed by a service trial ahead of applying to the CRS for safety clearance.
“We are running as per this schedule,” said Mr. Kharola.
