Namma Metro Pink Line Kalena Agrahara–Nagawara Route to Get Platform Screen Doors Across 12 Stations

The long-awaited 21.26-km Kalena Agrahara-Nagawara Pink Line is entering a crucial stage, with the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) moving from civil construction to track-laying and advanced systems work. One of the most significant upgrades on this corridor will be the introduction of platform screen doors (PSDs) - a feature not available in any of Bengaluru's existing metro stations.

PSDs to Boost Safety and Efficiency

PSDs are synced with train movement and open only when a train halts in the exact position at the platform. Beyond improving operational precision, they offer a strong safety layer by preventing passengers from accidentally falling or deliberately jumping onto the tracks - incidents that have caused concern in recent months.

In underground stations, PSDs also help maintain better temperature control by reducing air exchange between tunnels and concourses, which in turn cuts energy use for ventilation and cooling.

While PSDs are already common in metros such as Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai, Bengaluru is set to get them for the first time on the Pink Line's 12 underground stations.

Mock-Up Installed, Installation to Begin Soon

To prepare for the rollout, BMRCL has installed a full-scale mock-up of the PSD system at the MG Road station. The model, supplied by Panasonic (China), is currently undergoing trial evaluation.

A senior BMRCL official told DH that installation across all underground stations will begin after approvals,"Once testing and authorisation are completed, we will install PSDs across the 12 stations. The work should take around six months."

Each PSD unit will be approximately 2.15 metres tall, and platform screen gates (PSGs) will measure 1.4 metres, spanning the full 128-metre length of each station platform. The estimated cost per station is ₹9 crore.

Alstom's CBTC Contract to Power Automation

In June 2024, French transport major Alstom secured a €96.2 million contract to implement a fully automated Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) system for both the Pink and Blue lines, covering 80.39 km. The contract includes designing, manufacturing and commissioning of the signalling system, as well as supplying PSDs for the Pink Line and the Blue Line's airport terminal station. A PSG will also be installed at the Airport City station.
The entire project is being funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

More Stations Across the Network to Get PSDs

Beyond the Pink Line, BMRCL is also planning PSDs at key stations on other corridors. The Majestic and Central College stations on the Purple Line will receive PSDs, while the Konappana Agrahara station - funded by the Infosys Foundation - will be equipped with PSGs.

Pink Line to Open in Two Stages

Even as systems work progresses, BMRCL estimates that the Pink Line will become operational in two phases:

Kalena Agrahara-Tavarekere (7.5 km): May 2026

Dairy Circle-Nagawara (13.76 km): December 2026

The systems rollout includes electrical, electronic and mechanical installations - each of which must be independently tested and integrated - a process expected to take another six months.

Once complete, the Pink Line will mark a major technological leap for Bengaluru's metro network, introducing higher safety standards, better automation and improved passenger comfort. With PSDs, advanced signalling and an entirely underground stretch in key zones, the corridor is set to become one of the city's most modern transit links.