Bengaluru Metro: Rolling Stock Approval Brings Pink Line Closer to Launch  

Narendra Shah & Editorial Team
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Bengaluru Metro: Rolling Stock Approval Brings Pink Line Closer to Launch  

BENGALURU (Metro Rail News): Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has secured a key approval for trains on the 7.5-km Pink Line, which brings metro services closer to Bannerghatta Road. The line still needs an Internal Safety Assessment certificate and a final safety inspection before it can open.

According to the Deccan Herald report, Bengaluru Metro received the long-awaited rolling stock approval for the Pink Line trains on Monday. The Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) granted the approval, which clears an important step before the trains can carry passengers. 

Two safety clearances remain for Bengaluru Metro Pink Line

Bengaluru Metro now has two major steps left before it can seek final authorisation:

  • Internal Safety Assessment (ISA) certificate for the signalling system and its interfaces with other subsystems.
  • Statutory safety inspection of the Pink Line by the CMRS.

Alstom submitted the safety case for the signalling and train operation systems to Jodova Technologies last week. The assessment covers the Grade of Automation 2 (GoA2) system, which allows Automatic Train Operation (ATO) while retaining a driver in the cab. Jodova Technologies is expected to issue the ISA certificate within a week. As part of the assessment, its team is inspecting key stations, including Kalena Agrahara, Jayadeva Hospital and Tavarekere.

Once the ISA certificate is issued, BMRCL will invite the CMRS to conduct the statutory inspection. The inspection is expected to take place after mid-September. After the CMRS inspection, BMRCL will also need Railway Board sanction to formally authorise train operations.

Bengaluru Metro Pink Line project scope

The elevated Pink Line section stretches 7.5 km and has six stations:

  • Kalena Agrahara
  • Hulimavu
  • JP Nagar 4th Phase
  • IIMB
  • Jayadeva Hospital
  • Tavarekere

The corridor will provide direct metro access to the Bannerghatta Road area and improve connectivity along one of Bengaluru’s major traffic corridors. Bengaluru Metro’s Pink Line has already missed several earlier deadlines for opening the elevated section. It is now targeting operations by the end of September. But still the timeline depends on the completion of safety procedures and approvals from the state and Centre government.

What the launch means for Bengaluru Metro

The Pink Line’s opening will extend the Bengaluru Metro network to about 103.6 km, which will make it the second-longest metro network in India. The focus still remains on the final safety checks, not construction. The rolling stock has received approval, and the project now needs the ISA certificate and CMRS inspection before it can begin passenger operations. 

Also Read: 15 years of Bengaluru Metro yet an average person spends 168 hours in traffic

Kochi Metro’s Aluva-Angamaly Alignment Faces Backlash for Bypassing Angamaly Railway Station

Kapil Saini
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Kochi Metro’s Aluva-Angamaly Alignment Faces Backlash for Bypassing Angamaly Railway Station

KOCHI(Metro Rail News): The proposed alignment of Kochi Metro Phase 3 has come under scrutiny of urban transport experts, local merchants, and citizens after the KMRL submitted the Detailed Project Report of Aluva-Angamaly route to state government earlier this month. The proposed route has faced a heavy censure for skipping the integration of  Angamaly Railway Station, as the station sits at core of transport activities. 

The Demand for Aluva – Angamaly Route Revision & KMRL’s Reasoning 

The proposed elevated alignment will run from Aluva and follow the Nayathode route after Kochi airport to connect Karayamparambu in Angamaly. Against this backdrop, the coalition of urban transport experts, bus operators, and local merchants argues that the metro route shall move closer to NH 544 after serving at the airport.

High Land Acquisition Costs Block Realignment 

According to KMRL, the rerouting of the metro route to follow NH 544, will be economically challenging as the land acquisition costs have skyrocketed in the respective area and the decision to realign the route might not be feasible. 

Local stakeholders, however, have raised concerns over the proposed alignment, particularly its failure to connect with the railway station and the municipal bus terminal. B O Davis, secretary of the Private Bus Operators’ Association (PBOA), pointed out that the bus terminal currently handles more than 130 private buses and is situated next to the railway station, according to the Economic Times.

Davis said the existing bus services have operated for 38 years, linking rural areas and nearby towns with railway passengers. He argued that leaving both the railway station and bus terminal outside the metro network would deny passengers from the northern districts an important interchange between different modes of transport. A common transport hub, he said, could attract higher passenger volumes while also reducing traffic pressure within the town.

The alignment through Nayathode has also come under criticism from Seby Varghese, president of the Angamaly Metro Action Council. Varghese said a survey conducted by the council showed that more than 90% of respondents supported shifting the alignment towards NH 544. Such an alignment, according to him, would bring the metro within reach of the railway station, bus terminal and major industrial establishments, including TELK. Varghese said the proposed Nayathode alignment would increase the travel time between Angamaly and Kariyad to around 20 minutes, compared with about 10 minutes under the more direct route.

PM Modi flags off new MEMU service as Dhar district gets its first rail link since Independence

Narendra Shah & Editorial Team
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PM Modi flags off new MEMU service as Dhar district gets its first rail link since Independence

MADHYA PRADESH (Metro Rail News): Rail connectivity between Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh received a boost on Tuesday as Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated a newly built rail line connecting Dhar district in Madhya Pradesh to the national railway network for the first time and he also flagged off a new MEMU (Mainline Electric Multiple Unit) train service between Vadodara in Gujarat and Tanda Road in Madhya Pradesh’s Dhar district.

PM Modi launched the service through a video conference from Pratapnagar station in Vadodara during his day-long visit to Gujarat. The new service is aimed at strengthening rail connectivity between parts of Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh and providing easier access to train travel for residents of the region.

Additional rail projects launched alongside the MEMU service

During the programme, PM Modi also launched projects for the third and fourth railway lines between Vadodara and Ratlam in Madhya Pradesh, gauge conversion of the Miyagam Karjan–Choranda–Malsar section, and doubling of the Vishwamitri–Dabhoi section. The projects span 329 km and involve an investment of more than ₹9,700 crore. 

Daily MEMU Service Between Pratapnagar and Tanda Road

A railway official said a 12-coach MEMU train will run daily between Pratapnagar and Tanda Road station in Dhar district. The service will provide a direct rail connection between the two stations and improve access to rail travel for people in the area.

Another official said residents of the district will now have easier access to train travel between Tanda Road and Pratapnagar. The official added that Dhar district has met railway connectivity for the first time since Independence.

At Tanda Road station, Union Minister of State for Women and Child Development Savitri Thakur joined a large crowd of local residents to welcome the incoming train. Meanwhile, passengers on board completed their inaugural journey amid widespread celebration.

The broader 157-km rail corridor is designed to link remote and tribal areas of Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat. Beyond improving regional transit, the line is expected to stimulate local trade, generate employment, broaden educational and healthcare access, and open up new markets for regional agricultural products.        

2008 project receives breakthrough 

The Chhota Udaipur-Dhar rail project was originally initiated with the laying of its foundation stone in Jhabua on February 8, 2008. Exactly 18 years and seven months later, the project reached its first major operational breakthrough.

The new train service will connect Vadodara and Chhota Udaipur districts in Gujarat with Alirajpur and Dhar districts in Madhya Pradesh, creating a new transport link between the two states.

Also Read: RVNL Emerges L1 for ₹404.88 Cr East Coast Railway Third-Line Project

India-Bangladesh Step Up Talks to Restore Cross-Border Passenger Trains

Narendra Shah & Editorial Team
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India-Bangladesh Step Up Talks to Restore Cross-Border Passenger Trains

DHAKA (Metro Rail News): India and Bangladesh have moved closer to restoring cross-border passenger train services, with the Maitree Express, Bandhan Express and Mitali Express potentially resuming operations, following discussions on railway connectivity and bilateral cooperation.

The development came after Indian High Commissioner Shri Dinesh Trivedi met Bangladesh’s Minister of Shipping, Railways, Road Transport and Bridges, Shri.Shaikh Rabiul Alam, in Dhaka on September 8, 2026, where both sides discussed restarting passenger services, strengthening connectivity and advancing bilateral development projects. 

Despite the suspension of passenger trains, India-Bangladesh railway connectivity was not completely disrupted. Freight train operations continued between the two countries, allowing trade to move even while passenger services remained unavailable. 

The three international passenger services have remained suspended since the political unrest, followed by the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government, in Bangladesh in 2024. The Maitree Express connects Kolkata and Dhaka, the Bandhan Express links Kolkata and Khulna, while the Mitali Express operates between New Jalpaiguri and Dhaka. 

The possible restoration of the three services would reconnect major cities in eastern India and Bangladesh and strengthen an important mode of cross-border transport. Beyond passenger travel, the move could support tourism, trade, economic engagement and people-to-people relations between the two neighbouring countries. 

Train (no)RouteSignificance
Maitree Express (13109)Kolkata ⮕DhakaMaitree Express connects two major cities of India and Bangladesh. It supports people-to-people connectivity, tourism, and business travel between the two countries. 
Bandhan Express (13129)Kolkata ⮕KhulnaBandhan Express connects Kolkata with Khulna in Bangladesh through the Petrapole–Benapole border. It provides a direct passenger connection between West Bengal and southwestern Bangladesh.
Mitali Express (13132)New Jalpaiguri ⮕Dhaka canttThe Mitali Express provides a direct rail link between northern West Bengal and Bangladesh. The service is particularly important for tourism and regional connectivity.

Also read:https:Indian Railways Launches 1st Direct Freight Train to Nepal, Boosting Cross-Border Trade

Vande Bharat Sleeper’s Production Speeds Up with ₹180Cr Order to BEML

Kapil Saini
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Vande Bharat Sleeper’s Production Speeds Up with ₹180Cr Order to BEML

NEW DELHI(Metro Rail News): Given India’s growing demand for a faster and more comfortable mode of rail transport, the Vande Bharat train programme is gaining significant momentum. To balance supply and demand, ICF has awarded a ₹ 180 Cr contract to India’s leading rolling stock manufacturer, BEML, for producing the sleeper variant of the Vande Bharat train. The first Vande Bharat sleeper trains entered passenger service earlier this year on the Guwahati-Howrah route.  

Vande Bharat Maintains 98% Average Occupancy

Since its commercial operations, the Vande Bharat train project has received great appreciation from the passenger segment, and proof of this is that currently, Vande Bharat Express trains maintain an average occupancy rate of around 98% to over 100% across various nationwide routes. Vande Bharat (VB) services have expanded rapidly across the national rail network, and now, 162 Vande Bharat train services are operating at present.

Vande Bharat Sleeper Production Pipeline: 260 Trains to be Rolled Out in Coming Years 

The expansion of Vande Bharat has led to the strengthening of indian rail component supplier base and engineering capabilities in the nation. Currently, the orders for 260 Vande Bharat sleeper trains are active, which spans across multiple rail manufacturers.

ICF Chennai to Roll Out 50 Vande Bharat Sleeper trains

The Integral Coach Factory (ICF, Chennai) has remained ahead in Vande Bharat train production from the beginning. Currently, the coach factory is working on the order for the 50 sleeper variants of VB, which will come in the configuration of 24 coaches. 

BEML’s Commitment to Manufacture 10 Trains

In the last decade, BEML has expanded its footprint extensively across the metro and rail segment in India. BEML is shouldering the responsibility of producing 10 sleeper variants of VB, of which 1 trainset was inducted into commercial operations in January 2026 as India’s first Vande Bharat sleeper train. 

Kinet Railway Solutions (TMH-RVNL JV) Entrusted to Produce 120 Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains

Kinet Railway Solutions is a consortium between India’s Rail Vikas Nigam Ltd (RVNL), and the Russian engineering company Metrowagonmash, a subsidiary of Transmashholding (TMH)  and Locomotive Electronic Systems (LES), in a 25:70:5 ratio. Kinet received an order to manufacture 120 Vande Bharat sleeper trains consisting of 16 coaches each. The first Kinet prototype is targeted for rollout by March 31, 2027. Kinet manufactures Vande Bharat sleeper trains at the Marathwada Rail Coach Factory located in Latur, Maharashtra.

BHEL and Titagarh Rail Systems (TRSL) Consortium to Build 80 Trainsets

The consortium between BHEL and Titagarh Rail Systems has been entrusted to build 80 Vande Bharat sleeper trains with a 35-year annual maintenance agreement. Meanwhile, the company is targeting to roll out the first train by the third quarter of the financial year 2027.

Greater Noida West Metro Project May Get Cabinet Nod This Month 

Narendra Shah & Editorial Team
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Greater Noida West Metro Project May Get Cabinet Nod This Month 

GREATER NOIDA (Metro Rail News): The long-awaited Greater Noida West Metro corridor could receive Union Cabinet approval this month. It will bring the project closer to construction. The proposed 8.4 km line is expected to improve connectivity for nearly five lakh residents who currently depend heavily on road transport.

According to Noida CEO Krishna Karunesh, the Detailed Project Report (DPR) has reached the Prime Minister’s Office and the project has also received all the required no-objection certificates.  Once the Union Cabinet approves the project, authorities can begin the tendering process to select an agency for construction.

8.4 km elevated metro corridor with 5 stations

The Public Investment Board (PIB) cleared the revised project proposal in July. The Metro corridor will run from Noida Sector 51 to Greater Noida West Sector 4. It will cover around 8.4 km and include five stations. The project carries an estimated cost of nearly ₹2,000 crore and authorities expect construction to take around four years after work begins.

Proposed metro stations

The corridor will serve:

  • Sector 61
  • Sector 70
  • Sector 122
  • Sector 123
  • Greater Noida Sector 4 near Gaur Chowk

The line is expected to provide an important public transport connection for residents of Greater Noida West, particularly those travelling towards Noida.

Why the project matters for Greater Noida West

Greater Noida West has witnessed rapid residential development, but public transport connectivity has not kept pace with population growth. Many residents currently depend on private vehicles, buses and other road-based transport. Daily traffic congestion, particularly around Gaur Chowk, remains a major concern. The proposed Metro line could offer an alternative for commuters travelling between Greater Noida West and Noida’s existing Metro network.

The current 8.4 km proposal is significantly shorter than the original plan. Authorities initially proposed an 18 km Metro corridor connecting Delhi Metro’s Sector 61 station on the Blue Line with Knowledge Park V in Greater Noida. The Uttar Pradesh government approved the original alignment in 2024. However, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs did not clear the proposal immediately. The ministry sought clarity on the proposed 72 km Ghaziabad-Jewar rapid rail corridor, which was planned to pass through Greater Noida West. NMRC later revised the DPR, leading to the shorter 8.4 km proposal that received PIB clearance in July.

Other Noida Metro projects also move ahead

The Centre has recently cleared two other projects proposed by the Noida Metro Rail Corporation:

  • Aqua Line extension from Sector 142 to Botanical Garden
  • Depot-Boraki Metro corridor

Larsen & Toubro has received the work contracts for both projects. The existing Aqua Line currently connects Noida Sector 51 with Depot station in Greater Noida. According to July 2026 data, the corridor recorded an average daily ridership of around 61,811 passengers.

Also Read: Pune Metro: Geotechnical Work Sets Ramwadi – Wagholi Stretch in Motion, Traffic Jam Remains Primary Concern of Road Commuters

RVNL Emerges L1 for ₹404.88 Cr East Coast Railway Third-Line Project

Narendra Shah & Editorial Team
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RVNL Emerges L1 for ₹404.88 Cr East Coast Railway Third-Line Project

ODISHA (Metro Rail News): Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) has emerged as the lowest bidder (L1) for a ₹404.88 crore contract from East Coast Railway for railway infrastructure works between Khurda Road and Gangadharpur in Odisha.

The package forms part of the larger capacity expansion programme, which involves the construction of a third railway line on the Bhadrak-Vizianagaram section.

Contract details 

InformationDetails 
Awarding Authority East Coast Railway
Tender NumberEPC-CECONIIBBS2025048
ContractorRail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL)
StatusLowest Bidder (L1)
Contract Value₹404.88 crore
Execution Period30 months

Scope of work

The contract  covers a wide range of civil, track and railway infrastructure works. RVNL‘s scope includes the execution of Roadbed, Minor Bridges, Major Bridges RUBs/LHS, Building Works, Supply of Ballast, P. Way Linking and Other Allied Works including Utility Shifting of S&T and Electrification Works such as General Service Works including Power Supply Arrangements, Shifting and Modification of HT and LT Lines Between Khurda Road – Gangadharpur in connection with Execution of work of 3rd Line between Nergundi-Barang (22 km) and Khurda Road-Vizianagaram (363 km) on Bhadrak-Vizianagaram Section (385 km). 

About East Coast Railway Third-Line Project

The project forms part of the larger third-line development programme. It will cover the Nergundi-Barang section (22 km) and the Khurda Road-Vizianagaram section (363 km).

Together, these works are associated with the 385-km Bhadrak-Vizianagaram railway section, a major route on India’s east coast rail network. The addition of a third line aims to increase route capacity and provide greater operational flexibility for passenger and freight train movement.

Also Read: Indian Railways Targets 110 km/h Speed for Hydrogen Train

Alstom’s leading metro, signalling and maintenance solutions power Indore’s extended network 

Narendra Shah & Editorial Team
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Alstom’s leading metro, signalling and maintenance solutions power Indore’s extended network 

DELHI (Metro Rail News):  Alstom, a global leader in smart and sustainable mobility, today celebrates the commencement of revenue operations for the next phase of the Indore Metro Yellow Line. Alstom’s contract with Madhya Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MPMRCL) encompasses the delivery of 52 Movia metro trainsets along with 15 years of comprehensive maintenance services, including 7 years maintenance of the signalling train control, and telecommunication systems ). Alstom is the only multinational sustainable mobility provider in India to have a comprehensive portfolio of offerings to meet customer needs and continues to be a strategic partner in supporting India’s rail revolution.

Olivier Loison, Managing Director – Alstom India said: “This major milestone expands the reach of the Indore’s metro network, following the successful launch of the super priority corridor with Alstom’s solutions. We are proud to partner with Madhya Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. in this project delivering the trains, advanced signalling systems and maintenance, from India. This marks our commitment to providing sustainable, efficient, and smarter transit systems to the people of Indore.”

In alignment with the Government of India’s ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives, Alstom’s solutions for Indore are fully developed, manufactured and delivered in India. With six industrial sites and five major engineering centres, Alstom has all capabilities necessary to cater to domestic as well as international project needs. Alstom also remains deeply committed to strengthening its local sourcing and supply chain ecosystem.

Leading Alstom solutions transforming urban mobility in Indore

The Indore Metro Yellow Line spans 31.5 kms in total, with a 16-station mainline covering 16.72 km currently under operation.  The Yellow Line deploys 10 Alstom-equipped trainsets, operates at Grade of Automation 1 (GoA1) with Automatic Train Protection (ATP) on the mainline, and is supported by the Gandhinagar Depot and Test Track. With 23 out of 25 trainsets already delivered to Indore, Alstom continues to execute on its delivery commitments, reinforcing its deep partnership in transforming the mass transit landscape of Madhya Pradesh.

Indore’s metro trainsets are designed and manufactured at Alstom’s rolling stock manufacturing facility in Savli, Gujarat. Engineered for safety, sustainability, and passenger comfort, the trains operate at a top speed of 80 km/h. Each 3-car configuration accommodates 144 seated and 981 standing passengers, maximizing space and accessibility featuring dedicated areas for passengers with reduced mobility. 

The metro trainsets are powered by energy-efficient traction systems equipped with regenerative braking, significantly reducing energy consumption, while ambient lighting and smart light solutions further optimise energy use. 

The Train Control and Management System (TCMS) is integrated with an automatic track inspection system, guaranteeing reliable and high-speed data transmission. Security is bolstered by continuous CCTV surveillance, intelligent features such as unattended object identification and empty train detection, and direct communication channels with the train operator and the control centre.

To manage passenger demand, maximize throughput, and optimize operational efficiency, Alstom has equipped the Indore Metro with Urbalis Forward, its next-generation CBTC signalling system. Installed on 190 metro lines in 32 countries, this system ensures safe, fluid, and high-frequency train operations with minimized wait times, paving the way for future capacity growth. 

As the market leader in rail maintenance service and life cycle management, maintaining over 36,000 vehicles around the world, Alstom will keep the system running at peak performance over the 15-year maintenance agreement, supported by its FlexCare Perform solutions, playing a crucial role in ensuring high availability and stable train operations.  

Alstom in India

Alstom is the only multinational sustainable mobility provider in India, to have a comprehensive portfolio of offerings to meet customer specific needs and continues to be a strategic partner in supporting India’s rail revolution. With six industrial sites and five major engineering centres, the company caters to domestic as well as international project needs with its world class rolling stock, components, signalling and services solutions. Fully aligned with the country’s vision of Make-in-India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, Alstom remains deeply committed to strengthening its local sourcing and supply chain ecosystem.

About Alstom

Alstom is the pure rail leader, committed to making rail the backbone of sustainable transportation. We design and deliver a complete range of future-ready solutions – from high-speed and regional trains to metros, monorails, trams, turnkey systems, end-to-end services, infrastructure, signalling and digital rail solutions. With 87,800 people in 61 countries, Alstom brings together global expertise and multi-local presence to make every journey smarter, cleaner and more enjoyable. Together with our partners and customers, we realise the power of rail. Listed in France, Alstom generated revenues of €19.2 billion for the fiscal year ending 31 March 2026

Source: Alstom Press Release

Also Read: Manohar Lal Khattar & CM Mohan Yadav Inaugurates Extended Indore Metro Corridor 

India Could Surpass US in Metro Network Length Within 2 Years: Manohar Lal Khattar

Narendra Shah & Editorial Team
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India Could Surpass US in Metro Network Length Within 2 Years: Manohar Lal Khattar

NEW DELHI (Metro Rail News): India’s Metro rail network has reached around 1,170 km across 26 cities and could surpass the United States within the next two years, Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal said on Saturday. The minister said India now stands just 216 km behind the US, which has a Metro rail network of around 1,386 km. China remains far ahead with an urban rail network of nearly 8,000 km.

Manohar Lal made the remarks after inaugurating the extended Indore Metro corridor along with Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav.

India targets second position in global metro ranking 

The Union minister said India’s rapid expansion in Metro infrastructure could push the country ahead of the US in terms of operational Metro network length within two years. He said Metro services in India have expanded significantly over the last decade.In 2014, Metro services operated on around 245 km across five cities. The network has now grown to approximately 1,170 km across 26 cities.

India’s Metro network growth

  • 2014: 245 km across 5 cities
  • 2026: Around 1,170 km across 26 cities
  • US Metro network: Around 1,386 km
  • Gap with the US: Around 216 km
  • China’s Metro network: Around 8,000 km

The minister said India could become the world’s second-largest country by Metro network length after China if the current pace of expansion continues.

Indore Metro expansion 

The remarks came during the inauguration of the extended Indore Metro service. It is built at an estimated cost of ₹2,850 crore. Indore Metro earlier operated on a roughly 6-km priority section between Gandhi Nagar and Super Corridor 3. Passenger operations have now expanded to a 17-km corridor between Gandhi Nagar and Malviya Nagar Chauraha. The extended service covers 16 stations and connects several residential and commercial areas. Metro trains will run every 15 minutes, with more than 80 trips scheduled daily. Services will operate from 9 am to 7 pm, with the first trains departing from both ends at 9 am.

Metro expansion linked to ease of living

Manohar Lal Khattar also mentioned that Metro projects should not be viewed only as transport infrastructure. He said wider public transport networks can improve daily mobility and support the broader goal of improving urban quality of life. The government has continued to expand Metro systems into new cities while extending existing networks in major urban centres.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said the Indore Metro could eventually extend towards Ujjain and other nearby areas as the region’s transport infrastructure develops. He also highlighted the proposed ₹18,500 crore Indore-Manmad railway line, which is expected to strengthen rail connectivity between Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Gujarat.

Also Read: Manohar Lal Khattar & CM Mohan Yadav Inaugurates Extended Indore Metro Corridor 

Pune Metro: Geotechnical Work Sets Ramwadi – Wagholi Stretch in Motion, Traffic Jam Remains Primary Concern of Road Commuters

Kapil Saini
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0
Pune Metro: Geotechnical Work Sets Ramwadi – Wagholi Stretch in Motion, Traffic Jam Remains Primary Concern of Road Commuters

PUNE(Metro Rail News): The Pune Metro’s Ramwadi – Wagholi stretch is moving from papers to reality with the beginning of preparatory work for geotechnical investigation along the existing Nagar Road. Maha Metro has begun barricading on Nagar Road where the stations will come up. However, this initiative has sparked concern among the road commuters for the consequential congestion that will occur due to construction activities. The commuters have urged that a relevant traffic plan be drawn so the peak-hour hassles can be avoided. 

Double Decker Structure of Ramwadi – Wagholi Stretch: Metro Viaduct to Run Above 6 Lane Road

The 4.7km corridor will be constructed on the existing Nagar Road. What stands out in this project are the physical features. The corridor’s structure will be double-decker in nature, in which the metro viaduct will be constructed on top, while the 6-lane elevated road will come up just beneath the metro corridor. In the first phase, Maha Metro will initiate the work from Ramwadi to Tuljabhavani Chowk, in which the construction of 4 stations is envisaged, including: Viman Nagar, Somnathnagar, Kharadi Bypass, and Tuljabhavani Chowk.

The metro corridor will resolve the traffic congestion in the area, but until the project is completed, the authorities are required to create a full-fledged traffic management plan to avoid inconvenience to road commuters. Mostly, traffic jams occur when one lane is blocked by construction activities, and commuters drive on the wrong side of the road, which also increases the risk of accidents.

Traffic Jams Due to Metro Construction: A Persistent Challenge in India

If seen through a wider lens, wherever metro construction takes place, a reduction in road space is inevitable. This issue has persisted across metro projects in India and continues to create significant challenges for road users. There remains a considerable gap in coordination among traffic regulating authorities, metro corporations and the respective contractors involved in construction activities. This gap requires serious attention and can only be addressed through close coordination among all concerned organisations.

Before construction activities commence, it is imperative to prepare and implement a comprehensive Traffic Management Plan (TMP) identifying potential risks, diversion routes, pedestrian movement, emergency access and other traffic-related concerns. Such planning is necessary to minimise the risk of accidents and severe traffic congestion during construction. In the absence of a clear and effectively implemented plan, commuters are often pushed to face prolonged traffic congestion, unsafe road conditions and difficulties in accessing adjoining roads and public facilities.

Indian Railways Targets 110 km/h Speed for Hydrogen Train

Narendra Shah & Editorial Team
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Indian Railways Targets 110 km/h Speed for Hydrogen Train

NEW DELHI (Metro Rail News): Railway Board Chairman and CEO Satish Kumar said on September 6, 2026, that Indian Railways is working on its ambitious plan to operate India’s first hydrogen-powered train at a speed of 110 km/h after completing trial runs at speeds of up to 120 km/h. 

As of now, the authorities have capped the train’s operational speed at 75 km/h. However, the hydrogen train touched the speed of 120 km/h during trials. So efforts are being made to operate at a speed of 110 km/h. The proposed 110 km/h operational speed would allow the hydrogen train to run faster than its current 75 km/h operational limit while still maintaining a margin below its 120 km/h tested speed. 

Consultations are underway with stakeholders to identify suitable routes. Technical requirements and hydrogen fuel-supply arrangements are also being examined. The railway is also assessing various routes where hydrogen trains could be operational.

Unlike conventional electric trains that receive electricity through overhead wires, a hydrogen fuel-cell train generates electricity onboard through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen. Its stated by-products are water vapour and heat, with no combustion, smoke or tailpipe carbon emissions.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi flagged off India’s first hydrogen-powered train on July 17, 2026. The train currently operates on the 89 km Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana.

Read more: TÜV SÜD & MEDHA collaborate with Indian Railways for Hydrogen Train

IRCON Invites Bids for Slope Protection Works on Sivok-Rangpo Rail Project

Narendra Shah & Editorial Team
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IRCON Invites Bids for Slope Protection Works on Sivok-Rangpo Rail Project

SIKKIM (Metro Rail News): IRCON International Ltd has invited bids for carrying out slope protection and associated works at Melli Yard in connection with the construction of the Sivok-Rangpo new broad-gauge railway line project. The estimated cost of the work is ₹483.57 crore, inclusive of Goods and Services Tax (GST). The tender has been invited on behalf of Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR).

According to the e-procurement notice dated 2 September 2026, the scope covers slope protection works from Km 27+410 to Km 27+540 at Melli Yard, along with associated works including construction of an approach road, box culvert and other related infrastructure. The stipulated completion period is 12 months.

Tender details

ParticularDetails
ProjectSivok-Rangpo new BG Railway Line Project
Estimated cost₹483.57 crore, including GST
Completion period12 months
EMD₹9.67 crore
Bid submission starts17 September 2026, 09:00 hrs
Bid submission ends24 September 2026, 15:00 hrs
Bid opening25 September 2026, 15:00 hrs
Defect liability period12 months

Scope of Work: IRCON has specified a performance security of 5% of the contract value. The successful bidder will be required to submit the performance security within 21 days from the issue of the Letter of Acceptance (LOA), while the agreement is required to be signed within 28 days of the LOA. The defect liability period has been specified as 12 months.

IRCON has specified a performance security of 5% of the contract value. The successful bidder will be required to submit the performance security within 21 days from the issue of the Letter of Acceptance (LOA), while the agreement is required to be signed within 28 days of the LOA. The defect liability period has been specified as 12 months.

The Sivok-Rangpo Railway Project is a landmark 44.96-kilometer broad-gauge rail link connecting Sivok in West Bengal to Rangpo in Sikkim.

Manohar Lal Khattar & CM Mohan Yadav Inaugurates Extended Indore Metro Corridor 

Narendra Shah & Editorial Team
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Manohar Lal Khattar & CM Mohan Yadav Inaugurates Extended Indore Metro Corridor 

INDORE (Metro Rail News): Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs and Power Manohar Lal Khattar inaugurated the extended Indore Metro service at the Brilliant Convention Centre in Indore Today (5 September). Chief Minister Mohan Yadav also attended the event. The Indore Metro network will now expand from about 6.3 km to 17.5 km with the opening of the Gandhi Nagar-Malviya Nagar Chowraha corridor. The extension will bring Metro services closer to key residential and commercial areas across the city.

Regular passenger services on the extended corridor will begin from September 6, connecting Gandhi Nagar with Malviya Nagar Chowraha, also known as Radisson Hotel Chowraha. The expanded corridor will cover 16 stations. Metro trains will operate at a 15-minute frequency, with more than 80 trips scheduled each day.

Indore Metro service timings

The service will operate between 9 am and 7 pm.

First train9 am from both terminal stations
Last train7 pm from both ends
Frequency15 minutes
Daily tripsMore than 80
Stations on extended corridor16

Passengers will also have access to digital ticketing facilities. Promotional discounts are planned as part of the initial service rollout.

From 6.3 km to 17.5 km operational network

Indore Metro initially started passenger operations on a 6.3-km section between Gandhi Nagar and Super Corridor-3. The latest extension significantly increases the operational length to around 17.5 km. It will improve metro access to a wider part of the city and connect areas beyond the initial Super Corridor section. The extension follows the completion of testing and statutory approvals for the Gandhi Nagar-Radisson stretch.

Indore Metro project timeline

The project has taken several years to move from construction to regular passenger operations.

  • 14 September, 2019: Foundation stone laid for the initial Indore Metro corridor.
  • September 2023: First trial run conducted on the Super Priority Corridor.
  • 31 May, 2025: Passenger services started on the 6.3-km Gandhi Nagar-Super Corridor-3 section.
  • October 2025: Trial run conducted on the extended Gandhi Nagar-Radisson section.
  • 27 March, 2026: The corridor received approval from the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS).
  • 6 September, 2026: Regular passenger services scheduled to begin on the extended corridor.

What the extension means for Indore

The opening marks the next operational phase of Indore Metro after the launch of its initial short stretch in 2025. The longer corridor should make the system more useful for daily travel, while future extensions will determine how effectively the metro integrates with the city’s wider transport network.

Also Read: Indore Metro Launches First TBM ‘Narmada’ for Underground Construction

East Central Railway Floats ₹4,039 Crore EPC Tender for Koderma Detour Rail Link

Narendra Shah & Editorial Team
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East Central Railway Floats ₹4,039 Crore EPC Tender for Koderma Detour Rail Link

NEW DELHI (Metro Rail News): East Central Railway has invited bids for an estimated ₹4,039.75 crore engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract for construction of a new double-line railway track in the Koderma Detour section under the Sonnagar-Andal 3rd and 4th line project.

The tender covers the section from Chainage 158.00 to Chainage 184.00 in the Koderma Detour section of Dhanbad Division. The scope includes construction of viaducts, road over rail/road under rail structures, major and minor bridges, animal underpasses, RUB/LHS, tunnels and cut-and-cover sections, along with earthwork, blanketing, buildings, retaining walls and other associated works.

Tender Details: 

Tender No: ECR-CAO-C-S-EPC-01-26-27
Cost of Work₹4,039.75
Pre-Bid Meeting29/09/2026
Period of Completion1600 Days

A major component of the contract relates to tunnelling works. The bill of quantities provides for underground excavation for the main tunnel, escape tunnels and cross passages, including excavation through different rock and soil conditions. The scope also includes rock bolts, self-drilling anchors, pipe roofing, forepoling, shotcrete, reinforced concrete lining, waterproofing and drainage works.

Also Read: East Central Railway Invites ₹575.14 Cr Tender for Bakhtiyarpur-Rajgir-Tilaiya Line Doubling

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