This is the first time BMRCL is introducing the Communications-based train control signalling system (CBTC), commonly known as ‘driverless technology’.
Bengaluru Metro is set to use artificial intelligence (AI) to monitor tracks on the Yellow Line, which runs from RV Road to Bommasandra.
The Yellow Line connects RV Road with Electronics City — home to major companies such as Infosys and Biocon — and is expected to be operational by September 2024.
Explaining the move to Moneycontrol, a senior Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) official, who did not want to be named, said: “Before commencing revenue service, we run a pilot train with track and third-rail maintenance personnel on board (The third rail supplies electricity to trains through an additional rail next to the tracks). They visually inspect the track and the third rail.”
The pilot train, which is the first trip of the day, has employees from teams like rolling stock, traction, signalling, and track maintenance. This train always operates at a lower speed to physically inspect all obstacles and potential issues, BL Yashwanth Chavan, BMRCL Chief Public Relations Officer, told Moneycontrol.
For the Yellow Line, two trains will be equipped with a track monitoring system, Chavan and the official told Moneycontrol separately. “Pilot train with the installed track monitoring system will automatically check the track condition. In the event of any issues, it will generate alerts using AI software. By having this system in two train sets, we ensure a backup in case of defects in one set. Due to cost considerations, it is not provided in all train sets,” said the official.
The monitoring primarily relies on a camera-based system, where images of the track are transmitted to a server. With the assistance of AI, the system generates alerts. In case of a severe problem, an alert is directly sent to the Operation Control Centres (OCC) via the Train Control and Management system (TCMS).
Also read: Chinese-made driverless train prototype for Electronics City Metro reaches Bengaluru
“With the assistance of AI, we will be able to detect track issues using advanced technology, minimising the risk of human error. This system will also be implemented on future lines, including the Pink (Kalena Agrahara-Nagawara) and Blue Lines (Central Silk Board-KR Pura-Kempegowda International Airport), which will feature the CBTC signalling system,” said Chavan, the PRO.
This is the first time BMRCL is introducing the Communications-based train control signalling system (CBTC), commonly known as ‘driverless technology’. Despite the potential for driverless operation on the Yellow Line, BMRCL has decided to continue deploying loco pilots. Chinese company CRRC Nanjing Puzhen Co. Ltd. was awarded the contract to supply 216 coaches in December 2019, with 126 DTG coaches for the Purple and Green lines and 90 CBTC coaches for the Yellow Line.
Thameem Kamaldeen, managing director (signalling and infrastructure) at Alstom India, had recently talked about the role of AI and data analytics in train operations. “AI has opened up fresh avenues for ensuring safety in the rail industry,” he said, highlighting how AI-powered cameras can monitor track conditions, detect abnormalities, and prevent derailment.
Kamaldeen also discussed the promising aspect of predictive maintenance in the railway industry, where AI analyses real-time data to detect potential hazards, ensuring accurate repair planning and minimising unexpected interruptions, downtime, and repair costs.
“Big data and AI-based automated solutions can be used to track radio signal performance, predict failures, and optimise maintenance activities in real time,” said Kamaldeen.
