Bengaluru Metro begins rolling stock tests on Pink Line; Elevated section eyed for May 2026 opening

Bengaluru:

Rolling stock type tests on the Pink Line corridor between Kalena Agrahara and Tavarekere have kicked off Saturday, marking a significant advancement in the long-awaited metro expansion project.

The 7.5-km elevated section will undergo a series of rigorous trials from 11 January 2026 through mid-April 2026, as part of pre-commissioning validation before public operations can begin.

The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (BMRCL) said that the tests will include traction and brake evaluations, oscillation trials at various speeds, and comprehensive integration with signalling, power and telecommunication systems — all crucial steps to secure statutory clearances.

This main line testing under real field conditions is expected to pave the way for subsequent safety certifications. 

According to the latest project timelines, the 7.5-km elevated stretch between Kalena Agrahara and Tavarekere is now targeted to open for passenger service by May 2026, after repeated schedule revisions.

Earlier plans had considered operational deadlines as early as March 2026, but BMRCL’s updated schedule points to a May timeframe to ensure thorough testing and readiness. 

Once operational, this stretch — featuring six stations including Kalena Agrahara, Hulimavu, IIM Bangalore, JP Nagar 4th Phase, Jayadeva, and Tavarekere — will not only improve connectivity along the Bannerghatta Road corridor but also serve as the first phase of the wider Pink Line network. 

The full Pink Line, which will extend northwards to Nagawara through a mostly underground section, is expected to open in a later phase. The complete line — spanning an estimated 21.25 km with 18 stations in total — is slated for final commissioning around December 2026.