Alstom to commence production of driverless trains for Chennai Metro Phase 2 next year

Chennai, India (Metro Rail Today): Alstom Transport India Limited is set to initiate the production of Chennai Metro Rail Limited's (CMRL) first driverless train in February 2024. The trains are expected to be delivered within six months to facilitate the necessary trials before deployment on the upcoming 116-km Phase II network.

These trains will come with several new features, including mobile charging points and additional cameras for enhanced security. Notably, the trains on the Phase II network, which will operate without drivers, will be equipped with cameras both inside and outside the coaches for comprehensive surveillance. The Operations Control Centre will monitor the trains and their cameras, enabling immediate action in case of any issues. Additionally, an obstacle detection feature will be integrated to ensure the safety of passengers by halting the train in the event of any obstructions on the pathway.

In the absence of train operators, the trains on the Phase II network will not have a driver's cabin, allowing passengers to occupy the front area. Moreover, each coach will be fitted with mobile charging points for added convenience.

The contract between Chennai Metro Rail Limited and Alstom Transport India Limited, signed on November 17, 2022, involves the supply of 26 numbers of 3-car driverless trains for a total value of Rs 946.92 Crore, including taxes and duties.

The scope of the contract includes the design, manufacture, supply, testing, and commissioning of the metro rolling stock, along with the training of personnel, supply of spare parts, and defect liability. The first train is scheduled to be delivered to CMRL in August 2024 at the Poonamallee Depot. This will be followed by a rigorous testing phase at the CMRL facility, encompassing integration testing with other systems and service trials for 14 months. Subsequent trains under the contract will be delivered and tested on-site from November 2024 to August 2025.

Following the delivery of the trains, testing and trials will be conducted in preparation for the launch of the first stretch of operations on the Phase II project, which will run between Poonamallee and Porur.