There was a lot of fanfare and excitement when, at the end of last year, Bangaloreans were promised the Yellow Line Metro in February. Rumors were abuzz about a February 7, 2025, launch date. In reality, what it actually meant was that the second driverless train set was scheduled to be dispatched from Titagarh Wagons in West Bengal on that date.

A few weeks ago, in an attempt to rekindle public interest, the Deputy Chief Minister addressed the press, promising a May 2025 launch. However, this deadline too seems impractical, considering that BMRCL currently has only two train sets dedicated to the Yellow Line — far too inadequate to begin commercial service.

Whilst action is underway to compress the timeline for the mandatory safety clearances required for the metro, only a few trials can be conducted until more train sets physically arrive. These trials will require at least 3 to 4 weeks for clearances after the trains reach the Hebbagodi depot.

The information available is that the 3rd and 4th train sets for the Yellow Line are in an advanced stage at the Titagarh assembly line, with a few essential components still in transit from China for fitment. These sets will need to undergo fitment and trial runs before being dispatched from the yard. So, a June inauguration seems the most likely scenario for the Yellow Line. Until then, Bangaloreans will have to patiently endure the wait for its elusive launch.