BENGALURU: Namma Metro is on course to get its second operations control centre which is getting ready at Baiyappanahalli depot. The centre, coming up on a plot of 498 sqm, will play a crucial role in controlling the operations of trains of upcoming lines of the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL).
The upcoming centre will cater to crucial lines: Kalena Agrahara to Nagawara (Underground line, Reach 5 and Reach 6), Silk Board to K R Puram (Phase 2A), KR Puram to KIA (Phase 2B) and Phase-3 (two corridors, JP Nagar IVth Phase to Kempapura and Hosahalli to Kadabgere). The first OCC built over 12 years ago caters to just two lines -- Purple Line and Green Line and their extensions.
BMRCL chief public relations officer B L Yashavanth Chavan told TNIE that the centre will be unique as it will have a rolling stock control desk. “With unattended train operations (driverless trains) set to become commonplace in future Metro operations, this desk will take care of most of the operations. It will also carry out troubleshooting whenever required,” he said. Emergency train operators will be present in case of any problems.
The new centre will also have communications-based train control system through radio. “This will help in accurate and timely transfer of train-related information,” the CPRO added. Another top official said that the OCC will be equipped with sophisticated surveillance and camera systems.
Top BMRCL officials inspected the upcoming OCC last week. A senior official said, “All the contracts have been awarded. The building construction is under way and the ground plus two out of the proposed five floors have been completed.” Chavan said there was no specific deadline for its completion.
Crucial link launch soon
Two incomplete Metro stretches, the crucial link between KR Puram and Baiyappanahalli as well as Kengeri to Challaghatta, are set for simultaneous launch by end of July or mid-August, said highly placed BMRCL sources.
While the 13-km Whitefield to KR Puram stretch was inaugurated on March 25, the 2.5-km stretch from KR Puram to Baiyappanahalli could not be completed. “Cables for signalling and telecommunication are presently being laid and tracks are also being put now. Trials and CMRS inspection need to take place. We are looking at launching them by July-end or maximum by August 15,” a source said. The BMRCL MD had spelt June-end as the deadline earlier.
Meanwhile, the 1.5-km stretch between Kengeri and Challaghatta Metro stations too will be launched along with it. “One can then board a train at Baiyappanahalli and go up to Challaghatta at one go,” a source said.