Sampige Road-Yelachenahalli Metro trial run delayed by a week

The trial run between Namma Metro’s Sampige Road and Yelachanahalli stations has been delayed by a week.

Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation managing director Pradeep Singh Kharola said Alstom, the French company that has to conduct the trial run, will take more time to complete the requisite tests.

Of the two tracks on the most-awaited stretch, only one track is ready with the works on the other close to completion.

“One track has been handed over to Alstom. They may take a week to conduct signaling tests and track inspection besides other technical verifications. Only after the tests can they begin the trial run,” he said.

April opening doubtful?

The delay may affect the April deadline for opening of the entire Namma Metro Phase 1. BMRCL had first said that the trial run will start on February 15 and postponed it to February 25 later. Monday's development indicates a possibility of more delays.

However, Kharola said the delay in trial runs will not affect the deadline. Work on the Green Line’s stretch between RV Road and Yelachanahalli stations was completed nearly three years ago. Trial runs on the elevated stretch started on November 20, 2016.

Residents of Jayanagar, Banashankari, JC Nagar and surrounding areas have been waiting for the Metro to avoid the traffic gridlocks. The project has been delayed due to the slow pace of work at the underground section between RV College and Sampige Road stations.

Still caught in traffic

Passengers, however, want the Metro to open the section between Sampige Road and Kempegowda (Majestic) stations. “This stretch has been ready for operation for the last six months. Passengers have been forced to take the BMTC bus to reach Majestic on the most congested corridor,” says Nagesh, a passenger.