Trial Runs Commences on Kanpur Metro Underground Section

Kanpur, India (Metro Rail Today): On July 12, 2024, the Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC) commenced trial runs on the 23.785 km Line-1 of the Kanpur Metro, marking a significant milestone. This trial, covering the underground section from MacRobertganj Ramp to Nayaganj Station, is part of Kanpur Metro’s Phase 1 project.

Key Developments

1. Tunnel Breakthrough:
- Just four months prior, Gulermak – Sam India Builtwell JV’s Terratec tunnel boring machine (TBM) Tatya (S92) achieved the final tunnel breakthrough for the 3.62 km underground package KNPCC-05.

2. Trial Run Details:
- The trial involved a manual, low-speed operation of an Alstom MOVIA train-set from the operational Motijheel Station down the MacRobertganj Ramp towards Nayaganj Station.
- The line's 750 V DC Third Rail system was installed and charged in preparation for the trial.

3. Objectives:
- The primary goal was to check for Schedule of Dimensions (SOD) clearances and observe the train’s interaction with the civil structure to ensure there were no physical obstructions.

 Construction and Future Plans

- Contract and Construction:
- The underground section, part of Package KNPCC-05, was constructed by Gulermak – Sam India Builtwell JV under a ₹1042.26 crore contract awarded in March 2021.
- Two Terratec EPB machines, TBM Tatya (S92) and TBM Nana (S93), were used to build eight tunnels connecting several key stations: MacRobertsganj Ramp, Chunniganj Station, Naveen Market Station, Bada Chauraha Station, and Nayaganj Station.

- Future Testing:
- Over the coming weeks, various subsystems, including the signaling system by Alstom, will be tested.
- The train’s response to different speeds, braking, and the behavior of the track system installed by Larsen & Toubro and the Third Rail system installed by Sterling & Wilson – GSC JV will be monitored.

Looking Ahead

- UPMRC has not yet announced a specific deadline for operationalizing this section.
- Plans are expected to include connectivity to Kanpur Central Station, with twin tunnels between Nayaganj and Kanpur Central recently completed by Afcons Infrastructure’s TBMs Vidyarthi (S-639B) and TBM Azad (S-640B).

This trial run represents a crucial step towards enhancing urban mobility in Kanpur, promising improved connectivity and convenience for the city's residents.