Titagarh Rail Systems unveils innovative train design for Ahmedabad Metro Phase 2 project

Kolkata, India (Metro Rail Today): In an exciting development for urban transportation, Titagarh Rail Systems has unveiled the design of the new train sets for Ahmedabad Metro Phase 2. This announcement, made last week, reveals that 10 new train sets will serve the 28.25 km extension of the metro, showcasing a commitment to enhancing the city's transit infrastructure.

The design of the new 3-coach trains draws inspiration from Ahmedabad's vibrant festivals, including the colorful Uttarayan kite festival and the energetic Garba dance celebrated during Navratri. This artistic approach not only celebrates local culture but also aims to create a more engaging travel experience for commuters.

A significant feature of the new trains is their integration with the Grade GoA4 automation, enabling driverless operation in unattended train operations (UTO) mode. This state-of-the-art technology aims to increase efficiency and safety within the metro system, making Ahmedabad's public transport smarter and more reliable.

The Gujarat Metro Rail Corporation (GMRC) plans to deploy these new Titagarh trains alongside the existing Hyundai Rotem trains on the Ahmedabad Metro’s 39.22 km Red Line, which runs from APMC to Gandhinagar Sector 1, as well as its 5.4 km spur from GNLU to GIFT City. Notably, these routes were inaugurated just last month by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, further enhancing the region’s connectivity.

During the inauguration event, representatives from Titagarh showcased a video of the new trains to the Prime Minister, marking a significant milestone in the project.

In a message on Gandhi Jayanti, Titagarh Rail Systems emphasized its commitment to the ideals of truth and self-reliance championed by Mahatma Gandhi. “This project is our contribution to a smarter, sustainable, and connected Viksit Bharat,” the company stated, highlighting its dedication to advancing India's transportation infrastructure.

GMRC awarded the contract for the new trains, valued at ₹350 crores under Package RS3, to Titagarh Rail Systems in August 2023. The train sets will consist of a configuration of DMC (Driving Motor Car) + TC (Trailer Car) + DMC, allowing for flexible operation and improved passenger capacity.

Titagarh is expected to deliver the prototype of the 3-coach train within 70 weeks from the issuance of the Letter of Award (LOA) and complete the entire order of 10 train sets within 94 weeks.

This order represents Titagarh’s third major project in India, following contracts for Pune Metro and Surat Metro. Additionally, the company is assembling 204 coaches for Bangalore Metro through a partnership with CRRC, showcasing its expanding role in India’s urban rail development.

Unlike previous trains manufactured abroad, all new coaches for the Ahmedabad Metro will be produced domestically at Titagarh’s facility in Uttarpara, near Kolkata. The trains will be stored and maintained at the Gyaspur Depot in south Ahmedabad until the new Indroda Depot in Gandhinagar is constructed, with a tender notice for its construction currently pending.

The unveiling of the new train design for Ahmedabad Metro Phase 2 is a significant step toward enhancing the city’s public transportation network. With a focus on cultural representation, advanced technology, and local manufacturing, Titagarh Rail Systems is poised to play a crucial role in the evolution of Ahmedabad's metro system, paving the way for a more efficient and sustainable urban transit experience.