AI-Powered Track Monitoring: Namma Metro Yellow Line Sets A New Standard For Driverless Trains

Namma Metro is set to introduce artificial intelligence (AI) for track monitoring in its upcoming fleet of driverless trains for the Yellow Line metro, enhancing safety and efficiency.

Track Inspection: Before commencing revenue service, a pilot train run with track and third-rail maintenance personnel aboard is conducted. These individuals visually inspect both the track and the third rail, which supplies electricity to trains via an additional rail adjacent to the tracks.

The inaugural journey of the day, known as the pilot train, comprises personnel from various teams, such as rolling stock, traction, signaling, and track maintenance. This train consistently maintains a reduced speed to examine all obstacles and potential issues along the route thoroughly.

Equipped with a track monitoring system, the pilot train autonomously assesses the condition of the track. If any anomalies are detected, it triggers alerts through AI software. Implementing this system in two train sets ensures redundancy to mitigate potential defects in one set. However, due to cost constraints, BMRCL has yet to outfit all train sets with this technology.

How It Works?

Monitoring primarily relies on a camera-based system that transmits track images to a server. With AI assistance, the system produces alerts, which are promptly sent to Operation Control Centers (OCC) via the Train Control and Management System (TCMS) if a significant issue arises.

These 6-coach trains will operate on Bangalore Metro's Yellow Line. The coaches have electric signages above the doors to display routes, advertisements, notices, and other information.

These driverless coaches are part of the Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) System, also known as "Driverless Technology." This system will reduce the headway to 90 seconds from the existing two and a half minutes. Although the trains will be driverless, the BMRCL has decided to deploy Loco Pilots to reassure passengers.

BMRCL awarded the contract for these trains in December 2019. As per the contract, CRRSC will supply 4RS-DM 2 trains, while the remaining 36 will be assembled locally by Titagarh Rail Systems in West Bengal.

Namma Metro Yellow Line:

The 18.82 km long under-construction metro line connects RV Road with Bommasandra. It is a fully elevated metro route with 16 stations, connecting with the Green Line of Bangalore Metro at RV Road Station and with the Pink Line at Jayadeva Hospital station. It is expected to open by early 2024.

The introduction of AI in track monitoring demonstrates Namma Metro's commitment to enhancing safety and efficiency in its services. Commuters can look forward to a more reliable and technologically advanced metro experience on the Yellow Line.