The Metro de Bogotá conducted its first test run of a train on the Line 1 viaduct on Friday, May 22 [4].
This milestone marks the transition from infrastructure construction to operational testing for one of the city's most anticipated transit projects. The successful movement of the train verifies the structural integrity of the viaduct and begins the certification process required for public use.
The test run began at the Patio Taller in the Bosa locality, where a train consisting of six wagons was deployed [3]. Mayor Carlos Fernando Galán was aboard the vehicle as it traversed the elevated tracks. During the event, Galán said, "Es una realidad" — "It is a reality."
Officials said that the current phase is designed to verify infrastructure. While some reports indicate the vehicle was mobilized using auxiliary cars, other accounts said the train moved under its own power. The city plans to expand these trials next week to cover a segment of 5,700 meters [2].
This initial run is the first step in a comprehensive safety and performance regime. According to Galán, each train must complete 2,500 kilometers of tests before the line can enter commercial operation [1]. He said that this progress comes "luego de muchos años de espera" — "after many years of waiting" [1].
The trials will continue to monitor the interaction between the rolling stock and the viaduct, ensuring that the system meets all technical specifications before passengers are permitted on board. The project remains a central pillar of the city's strategy to reduce traffic congestion and improve urban mobility.
“"Es una realidad"”
The commencement of rolling stock tests signals that the physical infrastructure of Line 1 is sufficiently complete to support the weight and movement of full-sized trains. However, the requirement for 2,500 kilometers of testing per train indicates that commercial launch is still a significant distance away, as these trials must be completed and certified for every unit in the fleet to ensure passenger safety.
