Introduction and Background on the Project
The Bogotá Metro project is making significant strides, with an impressive 57.5% completion rate, as reported by Bogotá’s mayor, Carlos Fernando Galán. This ambitious public transportation initiative aims to revolutionize urban mobility in Colombia’s capital city.
Construction Milestones and Progress
The project’s first line is nearing completion, with the viaduct approaching six kilometers of construction. There are currently 215 active fronts spread across Bogotá, ensuring steady progress on various aspects of the project.
- As of last Friday, 6,628 piers, 475 piles, 459 columns, 332 capitals, and 180 openings have been installed using Chinese-imported girder launchers.
- Seven of these launchers are operational, while another is under assembly.
Train Manufacturing and Testing in China
Parallel to the construction progress, the manufacturing of the metro trains is underway in China. The China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation is responsible for building the trains, which are expected to arrive in Bogotá by September for testing at the workshop.
- The first two trains, each 135 meters long, 2.9 meters wide (minimum), and 3.9 meters high, consist of six carriages – four motorized and two non-motorized.
- These electric trains can carry up to 1,800 passengers at an average commercial speed of 42.5 km/h.
Testing and Compliance
After the completion of the first prototype, rigorous testing was conducted to ensure compliance with technical specifications and functional characteristics. The final test involved a 2,500-kilometer manual drive under technical supervision.
First Line Details and Impact
The first line of the Bogotá Metro will span 24 kilometers, feature 16 stations, and commence operations with an initial fleet of 30 trains. This investment is expected to directly benefit approximately 2.9 million residents of Bosa, Kennedy, Puente Aranda, Los Mártires, Antonio Nariño, Santa Fe, Chapinero, Teusaquillo, and Barrios Unidos.
Manufacturing Timeline
The production of the first train began in 2024 and extended over approximately nine months. During this period, parallel progress was made in various stages, including structure armature construction, carriage fabrication, painting application, equipment assembly, and more. This approach allowed for optimized timelines without compromising quality or attention to detail.
Government Concerns and Review
In June, the Ministry of Transportation requested a comprehensive review of urban, environmental, security, and mobility impacts related to the Bogotá Metro’s first line. The government’s concerns are categorized into four main areas: urbanism, economy, security, and mobility.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: What is the current progress of the Bogotá Metro project?
A: The project has reached 57.5% completion, with active construction fronts across Bogotá and significant advancements in the viaduct’s construction. - Q: Where are the metro trains being manufactured?
A: The trains are being built by the China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation in China. - Q: When are the trains expected to arrive in Bogotá for testing?
A: The trains are expected to arrive in Bogotá by September for testing at the workshop. - Q: How will the Bogotá Metro benefit local residents?
A: The metro will directly impact and improve the lives of approximately 2.9 million residents in several neighborhoods, providing efficient public transportation options. - Q: What are the government’s primary concerns regarding the Bogotá Metro project?
A: The government’s main concerns revolve around urbanism, economy, security, and mobility impacts associated with the project.
