Bhopal Metro Awaits RDSO Green Signal Testing Done; Report By August 15 To Decide Commercial Run

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): The Bhopal Metro is one step away from hitting the tracks for commercial operation. All eyes are now on the final test report from the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO), expected around August 15.

This crucial report will determine whether the Metro can proceed to the next stage—inspection by the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS)—which is essential before starting passenger services.

According to sources in the Metro Corporation, the RDSO team thoroughly tested Metro trains across various performance parameters. These included speed trials up to Metro’s maximum capability of 90 km per hour, as well as testing on curved sections of the track to evaluate stability and control.

Each Metro train comprises three coaches, with the capacity to carry around 50 seated and 250 standing passengers per coach. To simulate actual passenger load during testing, sacks weighing the equivalent of about 300 people were placed inside each coach.

Between July 9 and July 21, the RDSO team conducted tests on the elevated stretch from Subash Nagar Metro Depot to AIIMS. Specific checks included oscillation control and emergency braking distance (EBD).

For these assessments, a team of RDSO experts from Lucknow arrived with their high-tech testing equipment, transported in a specially designed coach. They meticulously recorded critical indicators such as ride quality, stability, braking distance, and overall rolling stock performance.

With testing now complete, the RDSO is analysing the collected data. If the outcome meets the required standards, the Metro will be cleared for CMRS inspection—bringing it closer to full-scale launch.

Officials are targeting a commercial rollout by October. The initial phase will see the Metro operating between eight elevated stations, running from Subash Nagar to AIIMS.

Long wait set to end

* Testing done: July 9–21 by RDSO

* Max speed tested: 90 km/hr

* Capacity per train: 3 coaches, ~900 passengers

* Likely launch: October, between Subash Nagar & AIIMS

news