Bengaluru floats Rs 1,017-crore tender for European signalling system for suburban rail project

Bengaluru’s suburban rail project has moved forward with the Rail Infrastructure Development Company (Karnataka) Limited (K-RIDE) floating a Rs 1,017-crore tender for an advanced European signalling and train control system covering two corridors.

The tender, published on November 5, covers the design, manufacture, supply, installation, testing and commissioning of the European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2 Hybrid over 5G, along with the associated telecommunications infrastructure.

The system will initially cover Corridors 2 and 4 of the Bengaluru Suburban Transport Project (BSTP).

The estimated cost is Rs 1,017 crore, excluding GST and customs duty on materials.

The last date for submission of bids is January 5, 2027, while the opening of bids is scheduled for January 6.

The signalling package represents a change from the earlier proposal to use Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC), similar to the technology used on Bengaluru Metro’s Pink and Blue lines.

K-RIDE has opted for ETCS Level 2, which is designed to enable continuous monitoring of train movements and improve railway safety through real-time communication between trains and signalling infrastructure, reported The Times of India.

Corridor 2, known as the Mallige Line, will extend approximately 25 km between Byappanahalli Terminal and Chikkabanavara.

The signalling system for this corridor is expected to be completed within 21 months of the selection of the successful bidder.

Corridor 4, known as the Kanaka Line, will cover approximately 46 km between Heelalige and Rajanukunte. Installation of the signalling system on this route is expected to take 30 months after bidder selection.

Separately, Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai will manufacture 51 stainless-steel trainsets for the suburban rail network. Each trainset will consist of three coaches and accommodate up to 350 passengers.

The trains are designed to operate at a maximum speed of 80 kmph. The first four trainsets are scheduled for delivery during 2027–28, with further deliveries planned by 2028–29.

The suburban railway project is intended to improve connectivity between Bengaluru’s residential, industrial and commercial areas while providing an alternative to congested roads.

The signalling tender marks an important step towards establishing the operational infrastructure needed for services on the two corridors.