HYDERABAD (Metro Rail News): The long delayed Hyderabad metro old city project has now gained momentum. The Chief Minister (CM) of Telangana, Shri Revanth Reddy gave directions about the Hyderabad metro phase II project and the addition of coaches on the current line in a meeting with the senior officials of the Hyderabad Metro Rail Limited (HMRL). He instructed the officials to expedite the work on the old city metro line and begin the tender process.
The old city metro line is the corridor VI (green line) of Hyderabad metro phase IIA project. The 7.5 km corridor covers Mahatma Gandhi Bus Stand (MGBS) to Chandrayangutta in the old city. The project was earlier on hold due to land acquisition disputes. The high court settled the dispute a few days before the meeting and allowed Hyderabad metro to resume the land acquisition work.
Shri Reddy suggested that Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) should be consulted on the technology and other necessary advice for the corridor VI construction. Moreover, he told the officials to begin the tender process and complete the remaining land acquisition work for the corridor.
Further, the CM told the officials that additional coaches should be added to the current metro line. This decision is taken to provide relief to the commuters as the passenger footfall is increasing. The process for adding the required coaches and the necessary station upgradations should be initiated, said Shri Reddy.
PUNJAB (Metro Rail News): The Rail Coach Factory (RCF) in Kapurthala, Punjab, is set to roll out its first rake of 19 LHB broad gauge passenger coaches for Bangladesh Railway on 12 August 2026.
The rake will include three AC sleeper cars, three AC chair cars, 11 non-AC chair cars and two power cars. The rake features several passenger-friendly amenities such as fans in AC coaches, integrated CCTV surveillance, passenger alarm systems, partially openable windows, a baby care room and a prayer room.
🔸Rail Coach Factory, Kapurthala to roll out first Rake of LHB Coaches for Bangladesh Railway.
🔸The coaches have been specially customised to meet the operational and passenger requirements of Bangladesh Railway.
The seating arrangement incorporates specially designed reclining chairs with stainless steel armrests and footrests offering multiple reclining positions for better comfort of passengers.
Safety and technical features
The coaches feature a crashworthy design that complies with European Standard EN 15227. This required a complete redesign of the car body shell to improve collision performance and passenger safety.
Electrical systems are configured for 415 Volt operations, unlike the 750 Volt system used in Indian Railways coaches. The roof structures have also been strengthened to handle additional load from passengers travelling on the roof during peak traffic.
These coaches have been specially customised to meet the operational and passenger needs of Bangladesh Railway.
RCF earlier supplied 120 LHB broad gauge passenger coaches to Bangladesh Railway in 2015-16. Building on that success, Bangladesh Railway placed a new order in 2024 through RITES for 200 broad gauge passenger coaches in seven variants.
The rollout highlights the growing role of Indian railway manufacturing units in supplying customised rolling stock to overseas markets and further strengthens railway cooperation between India and Bangladesh.
KOLKATA (Metro Rail News): Kolkata Metro’s Purple Line reached a significant construction milestone on Tuesday when TBM Divya completed its 1.72 km drive from Khidderpore to Victoria. This breakthrough marks the completion of the second underground tunnel in the Joka-Esplanade corridor of Kolkata Metro.
The Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) Divya broke through at the upcoming Victoria Metro station after finishing its tunnelling drive from Khidderpore. The machine began boring the tunnel on October 11, 2025. It covered approximately 1.72 km to reach Victoria. This latest breakthrough follows TBM Durga, which finished the first tunnel between Khidderpore and Victoria on July 10, 2026. With both machines now completed, the twin tunnels in this section are ready.
TBM Divya at a glance
Tunnel Length
1.72 km
Tunnelling started
11 October, 2025
TBM diameter
6,60 meters
TBM length
Around 95 meters
TBM weight
Around 600 meters
Tunnel lining
M50-grade precast concrete segments
Designed for Kolkata’s challenging ground conditions
Kolkata’s soft soil and high groundwater levels make underground construction tough. TBM Divya has been built to work in these conditions while ensuring controlled tunnelling. The project team also used M50-grade precast concrete segments to line the tunnel as the machine moved forward. Metro Railway stated that the construction team maintained safety and quality during the work. They also ensured that surface traffic and regular activities in the busy area continued without interruption.
Purple Line underground work progresses
The Joka-Esplanade Metro corridor will extend Kolkata’s Metro network towards the city’s central areas. Completing the Khidderpore-Victoria tunnel drive is a key step in developing the underground section of the corridor. Further tunnelling and construction activities will continue for the remaining underground parts. The Purple Line is set to improve travel between south Kolkata and the central business district once the corridor is operational.
Officials Highlight Construction Efforts
Prem Sagar Gupta, General Manager of Metro Railway, Kolkata, emphasized that the project team focused on safety and quality while making sure that construction did not disrupt surface traffic and normal activities in the area. Metro Railway called the breakthrough another important move towards completing the underground work on the Purple Line.
ADILABAD (Metro Rail News): Rail Land Development Authority of India (RLDA) invites e-tendering for grant of lease for commercial development over approximately 5,000 sqm of railway land at Adilabad railway station, Telangana of Nanded Division of South-Central Railway for a lease period of 60 years.
Tender Details
Details
Information
Tender No
RLDA/2026/RFP/CD/53
Bid Security
₹35 Lakh
Pre-Bid Meeting
11 August, 2026 ( 11:30 hrs.)
E-bid Due Date
27 August, 2026 up ( 15:00 hrs. )
Reserve Price in terms with NPV (Net Present Value)
₹10.50 Crore
Built-Up Area
12,848 sqm
Total Lease Period
60 yrs
Revenue Share
10%
Scope of the Work
The scope of work includes grant of lease for commercial development over approximately 5,000 Sqm of Railway land at Adilabad Railway station of Nanded Division of South-Central Railway for a lease period of 60 years, through e-tendering on a single-stage two-cover bidding system from interested eligible bidders.
About the Project
Adilabad railway station is an important NSG-5 category station in the Nanded division of the South Central Railway zone. Located in Telangana, it features 3 platforms and connects the region to major hubs in Maharashtra and neighboring areas.
DELHI (Metro Rail News): The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Railways tabled its 10th report in the Lok Sabha on Monday, 10 August 2026, focusses on boosting domestic manufacturing of bullet train components and expanding skilling programmes that involve international expertise.
The committee also recommended accelerated indigenisation of high speed rail components and institutionalised capacity building by expanding training programmes at High speed Rail Training institute , Vadodara with International expertise.
The Panel highlighted the importance of accelerating indigenisation of high-speed rail components and technology transfer under the Make in India initiative and direct Indian Railways to conduct a comprehensive study of well-established, efficiently operating high-speed rail networks globally and apply best practices to India’s upcoming projects.
The committee welcomed the expansion of India’s High-Speed Rail (HSR) footprint. The seven proposed corridors spanning around 4,000 km, are expected to attract investment of around ₹16 lakh crore.
proposed corridors
Mumbai-Pune
Pune-Hyderabad
Hyderabad-Bengaluru
Hyderabad-Chennai
Chennai-Bengaluru
Delhi-Varanasi
Varanasi-Siliguri
To avoid the delays and cost overruns faced by the Mumbai-Ahmedabad project, the panel strongly recommended that land acquisition, utility shifting and all statutory clearances must be completed before projects are officially sanctioned or funded.
Updates on Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (MAHSR) Project
The 508-km Mumbai-Ahmedabad corridor was originally approved in 2015 at an estimated cost of ₹97,636 crore based on feasibility studies. Costs have risen significantly due to taxes, cess and inflation. A revised estimate is currently undergoing final sanctioning.Full corridor completion depends on finalising civil structures, track laying, electrical systems, signalling networks and trainset deliveries.
The first stretch of operations is scheduled to commence on the 97-km Surat-Vapi segment by August 2027. This stretch will run on the indigenous B28 trainset manufactured by BEML, capable of operational speeds up to 280 km/h. Japan is developing its E10 series Shinkansen trains, but the timeline for their supply remains unconfirmed. To avoid waiting, India has opted to deploy domestic trainsets first.
The Ministry confirmed that Commercial operations will feature an affordable, socio-economically calibrated fare structure to ensure high passenger patronage on both short-distance regional trips and full-corridor journeys.
NASHIK (Metro Rail News): Maha Metro has proposed a 58 km metro network for Nashik at an estimated cost of ₹14,520 crore. The plan is divided into two phases. It aims to offer a long-term mass transit option for the city as its population and travel needs grow.
Maha Metro proposes 58 km Nashik Light Metro network
According to the report by Times of India, Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation (MMRCL) proposed a 58 km metro network for Nashik as part of the city’s draft Comprehensive Mobility Plan (CMP). The estimated cost of the project is ₹14,520 Cr. The draft CMP identifies three corridors suitable for a light metro network. However, Maha Metro will make the final decision after completing necessary procedures, consulting stakeholders, and conducting detailed feasibility studies. The proposed network will be developed in two phases and aims to meet Nashik’s transport needs over the next twenty years.
Proposed Nashik Light Metro network
Phase
Corridor
Length
Estimated Cost
Target
Phase 1
Gangapur Village-Nashik Road
21.5 km
₹8,770 crore
2031
Phase 1
Mumbai Naka-Pathardi Phata
13.58 km
2036
Phase 2
Ambad-Nashik Airport
23 km
₹5,750 crore
2046
Total
Three corridors
58 km
₹14,520 crore
–
Maha Metro has proposed two corridors for the first phase.
The 21.5 km Gangapur Village-Nashik Road corridor may be the first to be implemented, with the CMP targeting 2031 for completion.
The second corridor will connect Mumbai Naka to Pathardi Phata over a distance of 13.58 km. The CMP expects this route to be completed by 2036.
Together, these two Phase I corridors will span about 35 km and need an estimated investment of ₹8,770 crore.
Maha Metro estimates that each corridor could carry nearly 11,000 passengers per hour during peak times. This shows the potential for a higher-capacity public transport system like Light Metro.
Phase II to connect Ambad with Nashik Airport
The second phase proposes a 23-km corridor between Ambad and Nashik Airport. Maha Metro estimates the cost of this corridor at ₹5,750 crore, aiming for implementation by 2046. The airport link would extend the metro network to another key transport hub in Nashik and support future growth in nearby areas.
Maha Metro recently shared the draft CMP with stakeholders and invited feedback on the mobility plan. Officials are currently reviewing the suggestions and updating the document. The final CMP is expected to be submitted to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in September for approval. A senior Maha Metro official indicated that the proposed corridors have the potential for a Light Metro system. However, the final decision will rely on the completed mobility plan, stakeholder input, and updated information on population and travel needs.
Nashik’s earlier Neo Metro plan was dropped
The latest proposal comes after a new assessment of Nashik’s public transport needs. In April 2025, at a review meeting for the Kumbh Mela, Tarun Kapoor, Adviser to the Prime Minister, instructed officials to examine public transport systems in other cities worldwide instead of sticking with the previous Neo Metro model. Maha Metro then conducted a new mobility survey to reassess Nashik’s transport demands.
The Centre had previously announced a Neo Metro project for Nashik in the Union Budget 2021-22, with an allocation of ₹2,092 crore. This proposal was later dropped, raising concerns about the city’s long-term mass transit plans. The new Light Metro proposal aims to provide a fresh framework for Nashik’s urban transport growth.
CHHATTISGARH (Metro Rail News): South Central Railway has invited bids for a ₹3,103.69 crore EPC contract to construct a new broad-gauge double railway line from Kharsia to Balodabazar in Chhattisgarh. The project will also include Y-connectivity from Jharadih and cover major civil, track, electrical and signalling works.
Tender details
Details
Information
Tender Number
CAO-C-BSP-26-27-16
Estimated Cost
₹3,103.69 crore
EMD
₹62.08 crore
Pre-Bid Meeting
01 September 2026, (11:00 AM)
2d Pre-Bid Meeting
22 September 2026, (11:00 AM)
Bid Submission Deadline
08 August 2026, (22:56 PM) to 11 November 2026 (15:00 PM)
Completion Period
1275 Days
Scope of work
The contract includes construction of new BG Double Line from Kharsia (Km 0.00) to Balodabazar (Km 110.500) and Y-connectivity from Jharadih including earthwork in formation, bridges, ROR (Rail Over Rail), ROB (Road Over Bridge), RUB (Road Under Bridge), service buildings, staff quarters, P-Way works (including supply of Ballast, P-way material except Rail), Electrification (2×25 KV OHE, PSI, PLC & Electrical General work), and Signalling & Telecommunication works, along with allied and associated miscellaneous works in connection with Kharsia- Parmalkasa 5th & 6th New BG Line Project under South East Central Railway in the State of Chhattisgarh.
About the project
The new line will run between Kharsia and Balodabazar in Chhattisgarh and will form part of the broader Kharsia-Parmalkasa 5th and 6th New Broad Gauge Line Project. The package brings together railway formation, structures, track, electrification and signalling works under a single EPC contract.
NEW DELHI (Metro Rail News): Recently someone asked on social media that “It’s my last day in Bengaluru. What to do?” and one person satirically responded “Leave for the airport, you are already late”. This was a satire, but the reality of urban mobility across India’s tier-1 cities is quite harsh. The metro network is not well-developed and people have to spend hours in traffic. However, in Delhi, it is quite common to leave for the airport at the very last minute and yet be able to catch on the flight because of Delhi Metro’s seamless connectivity.
Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) informed that the Delhi metro has been one of the most punctual metro systems across the world, ahead of several renowned systems including China’s Hong Kong metro, France’s Paris metro and USA’s New York subway. In 2026, Delhi metro recorded a notable 99.95% punctuality so far under the criterion considering 59-seconds behind schedule as delay, positioning itself as a reliable and trustworthy system.
DELHI METRO OUTSHINES WORLD'S LEADING METRO SYSTEMS IN PUNCTUALITY AND RELIABILITY
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has emerged ahead of some of the world's most established metro systems — including the Hong Kong Metro, Paris Metro and New York Subway-in train…
— Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (@OfficialDMRC) August 9, 2026
This achievement was a result of Delhi metro’s commitment to punctuality from the initial years. Starting with the 98.27 % punctuality in 2003, the system crossed 99.5% in just two years with a 99.64% punctuality in 2005. In the subsequent years, it maintained over 99.9% punctuality despite becoming larger and the train headway distance being reduced to around 2 minutes and 18 seconds in busiest corridors.
CBTC: The mechanism behind seamless operation
The Communication Based Train Control (CBTC) system was a key mechanism responsible for the seamless operation of the Delhi metro. This mechanism provides real-time communication about the train’s location, speed and maintains multiple control and communication work. It uses a block mechanism in which the train’s location is calculated in a real-time block model and it prevents collisions by calculating brake curves and applying automatic brakes in case the train passes any Signal Passed At Danger (SPAD).
The Automatic Train Supervision (ATS) function of the system monitors the whole system and fosters punctuality and smooth operation throughout the network. This system keeps the metro on track while maintaining safety and fast operations.
New Delhi (Metro Rail News): Russia is exploring a new railway route that could connect it to the Indian Ocean and India. The idea aims to reduce dependence on two major maritime checkpoints the Strait of Hormuz and the Bosphorus Strait.
Russian Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin said alternative land routes should be studied. One possible path could pass through Turkmenistan, Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan before reaching India or the Indian Ocean.
Russia has proposed exploring a railway route through Turkmenistan, Iran and Afghanistan to provide access to India and reduce dependence on strategically important maritime routes.
Russian Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin said alternative routes could help address risks… pic.twitter.com/xeyyI78N3B
The Strait of Hormuz carries about 25% of global oil trade and 20% of liquefied natural gas shipments. The Bosphorus controls access between the Black Sea and the Mediterranean. Any blockade, conflict or disruption in these areas can quickly affect energy and goods movement.
A rail corridor would offer a land-based alternative that is less affected by sea blockades, weather or naval control. It could also give Russia a more direct overland path toward Asian markets.
Possible Benefits for India from the new rail route?
For India,if developed, such a route could open a direct land connection to Russia and Central Asian countries that are rich in minerals and energy resources. It may also shorten transit times and lower costs compared with the longer sea route via the Suez Canal and Europe.
Possible challenges
The idea is still only at the proposal stage. There is no finalised route, construction plan, timeline or formal agreement yet.Building a railway through several countries would require major political coordination, technical work and investment. Geopolitical challenges, especially involving Afghanistan and Pakistan, remain significant.
The proposal comes at a time when shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has faced disruptions due to regional tensions.
The suggested railway might significantly affect geopolitics and the economy because it offers Russia a new overland route to the Indian Ocean via Central and South Asia.
BENGALURU (Metro Rail News): The Railway Board has given approval for the Communications Based Train Control (CBTC) signalling system for Bengaluru Metro’s Pink Line and the entire Blue Line up to Kempegowda International Airport (KIA). This approval removes a significant hurdle for the Pink Line and allows Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) to conduct the remaining safety checks before starting passenger services.
Approval includes Bengaluru Metro’s Pink Line & Blue Line
The Railway Board’s approval applies to:
Pink Line (Reach 6): Kalena Agrahara to Nagawara
Blue Line Phase 2A and 2B: Central Silk Board to Kempegowda International Airport
The CBTC system will be a key part of the signalling and train control setups on both lines. For the Pink Line, the signalling approval was a major milestone that needed to be cleared before the elevated section between Kalena Agrahara and Tavarekere can open for passengers. BMRCL mentioned that it had been working with the Railway Board and the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) over the past month to finish the approval process.
Blue Line approval comes before commissioning
The approval also includes the entire Blue Line from Central Silk Board to Kempegowda International Airport. BMRCL reported that the signalling approval for the Blue Line arrived well before its planned commissioning. This will help the corporation continue testing and finish the necessary safety certification process on time. The Blue Line is being built in two phases and will provide a direct Metro connection to Bengaluru’s international airport.
Pink Line moves closer to passenger operations
After securing signalling approval, BMRCL will now complete the remaining safety and regulatory requirements for the Pink Line. The next steps include:
Interim Speed Certificate from RDSO
Statutory inspection of rolling stock by the Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety (CCRS)
Trial runs on the corridor
Final statutory inspection
Safety clearance to open the line to passengers
Commercial passenger services cannot start until the required inspections and final clearances are completed.
Pink Line project
The Pink Line is part of Namma Metro’s Phase II expansion. The full corridor will connect Kalena Agrahara with Nagawara. The first section set for opening includes the elevated stretch between Kalena Agrahara and Tavarekere. The signalling approval is therefore an important step towards putting this section into passenger service.
