Alstom delivers First Trainset ahead of schedule for Bhopal Metro Rail Project

Bhopal, India (Metro Rail Today): In an impressive feat of engineering and commitment, Alstom has successfully delivered the first trainset for the Bhopal Metro Rail project to the Madhya Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MPMRCL). This achievement, realized in a record-breaking fourteen and a half months from the Notice To Proceed (NTP), marks a significant milestone in the project's timeline. The delivered trainset is destined for Bhopal, where it will contribute to the city's modernization efforts, with operations set to commence in April 2024.

The unveiling of a mock-up car at Smart City Park, Bhopal, on August 26, 2023, was attended by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, along with representatives from MPMRCL, the General Consultant, and Alstom.

Ultramodern Trains for Enhanced Connectivity

These ultramodern trains, known for their lightweight design, will gracefully traverse the 31-kilometer line in Bhopal, featuring 30 stations, as well as the 31.5-kilometer line in Indore, boasting 29 stations. The Bhopal-Indore Metro project will be bolstered by 27 trainsets in the 3-car configuration for Bhopal and 25 trainsets for Indore. With a passenger seating capacity of 50 and room for 300 standing passengers, these trains are set to redefine urban commuting.

A Testament to 'Make in India'

In alignment with the 'Make in India' campaign, Alstom's state-of-the-art rolling stock manufacturing facility at Savli, Gujarat, is manufacturing the Bhopal-Indore Metro trainsets entirely within India. This achievement underscores the commitment to indigenous production and the development of India's manufacturing capabilities. Alstom's responsibilities, as outlined in the contract awarded in July 2022, encompass design, manufacturing, supply, installation, testing, commissioning, and 15 years of comprehensive maintenance.

A Major Investment in Sustainable Mobility

With a contract value of €387 million (over Rs 3,200 crores), this order not only includes the installation of the latest generation of Communications Based Train Control (CBTC) signaling systems but also encompasses train control and telecommunication systems, each with seven years of comprehensive maintenance. Notably, this represents the second combined order for Alstom in India, following the Agra-Kanpur metro projects.

State-of-the-Art Technology for Passengers' Comfort and Safety

The Movia metro family, known for its cutting-edge technology and reliability, is no stranger to global cities, including London, Delhi, Stockholm, and Singapore. These air-conditioned cars prioritize eco-friendly design to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for passengers. The trains are equipped with modern, energy-efficient propulsion systems featuring regenerative braking, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional transport modes and reducing energy consumption. Innovative features such as ambient lighting and smart light solutions further contribute to energy conservation. A Train Control and Management System (TCMS) with an embedded automatic track inspection system ensures error-free, high-speed data transmission. The utmost attention to safety and security includes continuous CCTV surveillance and direct communication channels with the train operator and the control center in case of emergencies. Intelligent CCTV features, including unattended object identification and passenger counting during evacuation, enhance passenger safety. Additionally, the trains are equipped with dedicated wheelchair spaces to accommodate passengers with special needs.

A Legacy of Excellence

Alstom India's illustrious history includes the successful delivery of world-class metro trains to major cities such as Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Lucknow, and Kochi in India, as well as projects in Sydney, Queensland, and Montreal. Currently, the company is manufacturing metro trains for the Agra-Kanpur project and Mumbai Metro Line 3. Furthermore, Alstom is working on state-of-the-art trainsets for India's first semi high-speed Delhi-Meerut RRTS project. This ongoing commitment to India's transportation infrastructure underscores Alstom's dedication to redefining mass transportation across the nation.