SRICITY (Metro Rail News): Alstom, a global leader in smart and sustainable mobility, began producing its world-class Metropolis trainsets for the Chennai Metro Phase II from its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Sricity.
Order Size
This order aims to deliver 36 metro trainsets, each comprising three cars capable of operating at 80 kmph. These trains are designed to run on the 26 km corridor, a segment of Phase-II linking Poonamallee Bypass to Light House via 28 stations (18 elevated and ten underground). The production commenced at a commemorative ceremony led by leaders from Chennai Metro Rail Ltd. and Alstom India.
Project Value
The project is valued at 124 million euros, including personnel training for Chennai Metro for operation and maintenance. With a 25 KV power supply for optimal energy efficiency, Alstom’s Metropolis metros will ensure safe and reliable passenger transport for over 11 million city citizens. The project will also significantly contribute to socio-economic development by connecting key zones.
Mr. M.A. Siddique, I.A.S., Managing Director of CMRL, said, “Chennai Metro has established itself as a cornerstone of efficient and reliable transportation for our citizens. It not only boosts the economy by improving connectivity but also champions sustainable mobility by reducing emissions and de-congesting roads. CMRL will be introducing Driver-less trains in Phase-II. These modern trains prioritize safety and passenger comfort, further elevating the commuting experience. We are happy that out first set of Driverless trains will be manufactured near Chennai by Alstom. We look forward to operating these technologically advanced trains on the Phase-II network by end of 2025, marking a significant milestone for the city’s transportation infrastructure.”
On the occasion, Olivier Loison, managing director of Alstom India, said, “We have had a long-standing association with Chennai Metro for over a decade. The rolling stock order for Chennai Metro Phase-I began our manufacturing journey in India. As we begin production for the second phase, we are thrilled to be bringing more innovation to Chennai Metro that promises to redefine the commuting experience for the residents of Chennai.”
Rolling Stock Highlights of the trains for Chennai Metro Phase II
The metro system boasts impressive features, including three-car trains accommodating up to 1000 passengers, ensuring a seamless boarding experience with wide internal gangways. The air-conditioned environment prioritises comfort, with dedicated spaces for women and differently-abled individuals. Dedicated to creating a women-friendly travel experience, the new metro introduces special features catering to the comfort and safety of female passengers. One car reserved 2/3rd of its space as a designated ladies’ section. Recognising the importance of accessibility, distinct colours mark grab handles within this area, and their installation at a lower height ensures easy access. Perch seats will support standing passengers, complemented by enhanced security through CCTV cameras. Safety remains paramount with emergency evacuation doors and strategically placed fire extinguishers. The system is equipped with obstacle and detrainment detectors for swift issue resolution, and it emphasises sustainability with regenerative electric braking for enhanced energy efficiency. These driverless trains have advanced passenger announcement systems, ensuring timely updates and information dissemination throughout the journey. The new metro is set to redefine urban transportation, focusing on comfort, safety, and environmental responsibility.
Design highlights of the trains for Chennai Metro Phase II
Inspired by the graceful ‘Mudras’ of the Indian classical dance form, Bharatnatyam, the exterior front mask forms a unique and culturally rich design. The saloon draught screen pattern (the glass support against every corner seat in the metro) pays homage to Tamil Nadu’s traditional decorative art form, ‘Kolam’. These trains will be the first in India to introduce Perch seats, enhancing passenger experience and comfort. The colour palette is based on the region’s landscape, architecture, state heritage, vibrant communities, rich traditions, diverse art, and cultural expressions.
These metro train sets are engineered and designed to operate driverless with Unattended Train Operations (UTO). The metro coaches are equipped with Automatic Train Operation (ATO), Automatic Train Protection (ATP), and a regenerative braking system, ensuring substantial energy conservation. Featuring GOA 4 driverless features, these trains will offer an environmentally friendly and comfortable metro solution for passengers of Chennai. Alstom also manufactured and delivered 208 metro cars for the 54km of the first phase and Extension of Corridor-I from Airport to Wimco Nagar and Corridor-II from Chennai Central to St. Thomas Mount. In addition to this, the company has also successfully designed, tested, and commissioned the track works covering 45 kms of corridors I & II for the Chennai Metro.
Alstom also manufactured and delivered 208 metro cars for the 54km of the first phase and Extension of Corridor-I from the Airport to Wimco Nagar and Corridor-II from Chennai Central to St. Thomas Mount. In addition to this, the company has also successfully designed, tested, and commissioned the track works covering 45 km of corridors I & II for the Chennai Metro.
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