Namma Metro Reach 6: BMRCL to Energise Underground Third Rail from August 10; Issues High-Voltage Safety Warning
Byline: Political Bureau | Bangalore Mail
Published: August 6, 2026
BENGALURU: In a major milestone towards operationalising the Pink Line, the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has issued a public safety notification announcing that the underground stretch of Reach-6 will be progressively energised starting August 10, 2026.
The electrical testing will activate the high-voltage 33kV traction power cables and the 750V DC third-rail power system along the underground corridor connecting Pottery Town to Nagawara.
Phased Energisation Drive
According to BMRCL officials, the power activation on the Reach-6 underground section will take place in four structured phases:
1. Pottery Town to Tannery Town
2. Tannery Town to Venkateshpura
3. Venkateshpura to Kadugondanahalli
4. Kadugondanahalli to Nagawara
Once charged, the third rail—located along the tracks to supply propulsion power to metro trains—will carry continuous high-voltage direct current (750V DC), alongside 33kV alternating current traction power cables running through the tunnels.
Strict Safety Advisory Issued to Public
Highlighting the grave risks associated with live electrical infrastructure, the BMRCL issued a severe warning to unauthorized personnel, local residents, and trespassers.
“Any direct or indirect contact with the 750V DC third rail or the 33kV traction cables can result in electrocution and prove fatal. The public is strictly cautioned against entering or approaching the underground metro tunnels, tracks, or auxiliary sub-stations without official authorization once the charging process begins on August 10,” the BMRCL stated in its advisory
Paving the Way for Trial Runs
The energisation of power cables and third-rail systems is a mandatory prerequisite for static and dynamic trial runs on underground metro corridors. Following successful charging and safety checks, BMRCL plans to begin track testing and trial train runs on this key stretch of the Pink Line, bringing North Bengaluru closer to high-speed metro connectivity.
