Namo Bharat Rapid Trains To Roll Out In Bengaluru Soon, Set To Link Mysuru, Tumakuru

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that Namo Bharat trains will soon be introduced in Bengaluru, aiming to enhance connectivity between the city and its neighboring towns.

The minister stated that the government is planning to launch these semi-high-speed trains between Bengaluru-Tumakuru and Bengaluru-Mysuru.

The Namo Bharat trains, being manufactured at Bengaluru's Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML), are designed to reduce travel time and enhance connectivity between the suburbs and the main city. The introduction of these trains is part of Indian Railways' broader strategy to improve commuter experience.

"Bengaluru is growing at a tremendous pace, and our government is committed to making train transport efficient in the tech capital," Vaishnaw said. Along with the suburban rail project, we are also planning to introduce brand-new Namo Bharat trains in the city. These trains will provide a convenient and efficient mode of transportation between Bengaluru and surrounding cities."

The minister also highlighted that the new train services would help alleviate the increasing traffic issues in Karnataka's capital, reports Hindustan Times.

"Indian Railways aims to provide ultimate comfort to middle-class passengers," Vaishnaw said. He emphasised that the fares for Namo Bharat trains would be affordable, and passenger safety would remain a priority, with the inclusion of multiple sensors and the Kavach system—a safety technology designed to alert loco pilots of potential dangers. "These trains will match the best trains in the world," he added, following the unveiling of the Vande Bharat sleeper coach in Bengaluru.

The Namo Bharat Rapid Rail sets itself apart with innovative features like an under-slung propulsion system and advanced braking mechanisms, designed to deliver a smoother and more efficient ride. These technologies allow for quick acceleration and deceleration making the train an ideal solution for urban and suburban commuting, where efficient stop-start mechanisms are crucial for minimising delays.

With 12 coaches, the train can accommodate 1,150 seated passengers and 2,058 standing passengers, providing a high-capacity solution for busy urban and suburban routes. The use of semi-permanent couplers ensures jerk-free travel, enhancing the passenger experience, while double-driving cabs at both ends reduce turnaround time at terminal stations.

Last month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off India’s first Vande Metro services, now renamed as ‘Namo Bharat Rapid Rail,’ between Bhuj and Ahmedabad. The Ahmedabad-Bhuj service covers 360 kilometers in 5 hours and 45 minutes, with stops at nine stations, traveling at a top speed of 110 km/h.

In addition to providing a fast and reliable service, the Namo Bharat Rapid Rail is also eco-friendly. It consumes less energy thanks to its efficient propulsion system and regenerative braking, contributing to India's broader push towards sustainable urban transportation solutions.