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Mumbai Metro’s Aarey-BKC Line Receives 5 Out of 9 Required Rakes

24/06/2023

Mumbai (Metro Rail News): The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC) has recently obtained five out of the nine rakes required for Phase I commercial operations between Aarey and BKC.

The MMRC ordered 31 eight-coach rakes from Alstom, a well-known rail transport manufacturer based in Sri City, Andhra Pradesh. The project gained momentum with the delivery of the first rake in July 2022. The official trial run was flagged off on August 30, 2022, by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
According to the MMRC spokesperson, the remaining four rakes are currently under manufacturing.

Each MMRC rake has a cutting-edge Unattended Train Operation (UTO) technology that enables full automation for a start, stop, door opening, and management of emergencies, negating the need for onboard workers. The control room keeps a close eye on the train health.

These trains will initially be operated in pilot mode, but after a few months MMRC intends to request permission from the commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) to operate them in driverless mode.

The order for these rakes, placed in September 2018, came at a total cost of 315 million euros to Alstom.

Moreover, the trainsets deployed on the Aqua Line will feature a regenerative braking system, contributing to a notable reduction in carbon emissions. With a length of 177.2 meters, the trainsets can accommodate approximately 3,000 passengers per trip, ensuring smooth and efficient transport for the city’s residents.

Safety remains a top priority for the MMRC, and the trains are equipped with various features to ensure passenger security. CCTV cameras, smoke detectors, emergency intercoms, fire extinguishers, and large detrainment doors have been installed to evacuate in emergencies quickly.

Furthermore, the design of the trainsets prioritizes accessibility, offering convenience and ease of travel for differently-abled individuals.

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Powering the Future: India’s First Hydrogen Trains Set to Roll Out in Jind District

Staff Reporter

24/06/2023

Indian Railways Hydrogen train — Hydrogen Train/Representational image only

JIND (Metro Rail News): Hydrogen-powered trains will soon be introduced in India, starting from Jind district in Haryana. This will be a significant milestone as it will be the first time such trains are being used in the country. The General Manager of Northern Railway, Shobhan Chaudhary, visited the location and shared that the trains are expected to be operational by the end of this year.

To support this initiative, India’s first hydrogen plant is being established near the railway junction in Jind district. The plant is in its final phase of development and will produce hydrogen from water. This plant will play a crucial role in powering the hydrogen trains.
The first prototype of the hydrogen train is scheduled to run between the Jind-Sonipat section of Northern Railway in the fiscal year 2023-2024. Currently, trains in India run on diesel and electricity, making this hydrogen project a new and innovative venture.

The hydrogen train will consist of eight bogies and will be environment friendly, as hydrogen fuel does not produce harmful emissions. Senior officials have visited the site to assess the requirements for setting up a hydrogen pump in Jind and establishing the necessary infrastructure.

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Indian Railways and USAID Join Forces for Net-Zero Emissions

Staff Reporter

23/06/2023

Indian Railways signs MoU with USAID to collaborate on renewable energy and energy efficiency.

NEW DELHI (Metro Rail News): The Indian Railways has taken a major step towards reducing its carbon footprint and working towards the goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed between the Indian Railways and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to collaborate on renewable energy and energy efficiency.

In the presence of Shri Anil Kumar Lahoti, Chairman & CEO, Railway Board, the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Shri Naveen Gulati, Member (Traction and Rolling Stock), Railway Board, Indian Railways, and Ms. Isabel Coleman, Deputy Administrator, USAID.

Under this MoU, the Indian Railways will receive technical assistance and support from USAID. The collaboration will focus on various areas, including long-term energy planning for the railways with a focus on clean energy, development of an Energy Efficiency Policy and Action Plan for buildings within the Indian Railways system, planning for clean energy procurement to support their goal of achieving net-zero emissions, technical support to address regulatory and implementation challenges, bid design and management support for large-scale renewable energy projects, and assistance in promoting e-mobility initiatives for the railways. These collaborative efforts will contribute greatly to the Indian Railways’ sustainability goals.

The partnership with USAID is expected to play a crucial role in helping the Indian Railways achieve its ambitious target of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030. This collaboration will provide valuable expertise and support in the journey towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly railway system in India.

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DMRC Increases Speed of Airport Express Line Metro Trains, Shortens Travel Time

Staff Reporter

23/06/2023

Delhi Metro Airport Express Line/Representational image

NEW DELHI (Metro Rail News): The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has announced a speed increase for metro trains on the Airport Express Line (AEL), which connects New Delhi to Dwarka Sec-21 via IGI Airport. The speed limit has been increased from 100 kilometres per hour (KMPH) to 110 KMPH, substantially cutting travel time.

The DMRC received the necessary approval from the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) to implement the increased speed. Consequently, passengers travelling from New Delhi station can now reach the Airport (T-3) in approximately 16 minutes, highlighting the improved efficiency of the metro system.

As a result of the increased speed, it now takes only 15 minutes to go from the airport to Rajiv Chowk, the city’s commercial centre.

After the increase, the journey time from New Delhi to Dwarka Sec-21 metro station will be roughly 20 minutes. Furthermore, after the maximum speed limit of 120 KMPH is imposed in the coming days, the overall travel time on the entire AEL will be lowered to 19 minutes.
The DMRC has achieved a remarkable feat in the Indian metro sector by setting a new benchmark with a speed of 110 KMPH, solidifying its position as one of the fastest metro systems in the country. This achievement follows the previous increase in speed on the Airport Express Line from 90 KMPH to 100 KMPH on March 22, as confirmed by DMRC officials.

Furthermore, the DMRC has plans to further elevate the speed to 120 KMPH after receiving the necessary clearance. Once implemented, this will lead to an even shorter travel time for commuters on the AEL.

According to the DMRC, commuters have a practical and affordable choice with the combination of fast transport and easy access to the airport.

In addition to speed increases, the DMRC has lately implemented initiatives to improve passenger convenience, such as rapid and cashless ticketing via QR codes and WhatsApp-based ticketing.

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Telangana CM Announces Extension of Metro Rail from Patancheru to Hayathnagar

Staff Reporter

23/06/2023

Hon'ble Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao at Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony of Government Super Specialty Hospital at Patancheru

TELANGANA (Metro Rail News): Shri K. Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR), Chief Minister of Telangana, has announced plans to extend the metro train network from Patancheru in Sangareddy district to Hayathnagar in Rangareddy district.

Speaking at a public meeting after laying the foundation stone for a new super-speciality hospital in Patancheru, the Chief Minister added that this expansion would become a reality during the next term of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) government. He highlighted the importance of extending the metro rail network to the Patancheru industrial area, which would facilitate further regional growth and development.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Chandrasekhar Rao emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to achieving comprehensive growth in the state. He cited the remarks of leaders from Andhra Pradesh, including former Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, who acknowledged the significant increase in land rates in Telangana. This, according to Mr. Chandrasekhar Rao, serves as a testament to the remarkable development of the state. He further stated that Telangana’s per capita income and power consumption levels surpass the national average, underscoring their significance as key growth indicators. The Chief Minister also highlighted the parallel progress in Telangana’s development and welfare initiatives.

T. Harish Rao, the Finance and Health Minister, Telangana Government, attributed Telangana’s impressive development to the visionary leadership of Mr. Chandrasekhar Rao. MLA Gudem Mahipal Reddy elaborated on the substantial progress made in the state over the past nine years. The event was attended by Chief Secretary Shanthi Kumari, MP Ranjith Reddy, MLC Mahender Reddy, Palla Rajeshwar Reddy, and other dignitaries.

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India’s Largest Private Rail Coach Factory Opens in Hyderabad

Staff Reporter

23/06/2023

HYDERABAD (Metro Rail News): On June 22, 2023, Hyderabad, India’s largest private rail coach factory, was officially inaugurated in Kondakal village, Rangareddy district, near Hyderabad. The esteemed facility, constructed by Medha Servo Drives Private Limited, a renowned Telangana-based company specializing in designing and manufacturing complex electrical and electronic railway products, marks a significant milestone for the state.

Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao, gracing the inauguration ceremony, expressed immense pride in Telangana’s accomplishment of housing a homegrown company that will now play a key role in the construction of rail coaches within the state.

The Chief Minister also expressed his delight over Medha Servo Drives Private Limited securing a prestigious monorail order from Mumbai, further bolstering the company’s reputation and positioning them as a key player in the rail industry.

Following the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act 2014, Telangana was guaranteed the establishment of a rail coach manufacturer within six months of its formation.

Medha Group took the initiative in 2017 and signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Telangana State Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (TSIIC) to create a private rail coach manufacturing, clearing the door for realizing this long-awaited project.

Industries Minister K.T. Rama Rao laid the foundation stone for the factory on August 13, 2020. The private rail coach factory, which has an excellent investment of Rs 1,000 crore, has a production capacity of 500 coaches and 50 locomotives yearly.

Spanning 100 acres, the state-of-the-art facility can manufacture various types of railway rolling stock, including coaches, train sets, locomotives, metro trains, and monorails.

Mr. Kasyap Reddy, the Managing Director of Medha Servo Drives, revealed during the inaugural ceremony that approximately Rs 400 crore had been invested in the project’s first phase, with a proposed investment of Rs 805 crore in total.

Reddy announced that by the end of this year, the facility will successfully manufacture coach components for the Monorail project. He expressed aspirations to expand the project in subsequent phases, aiming to produce railway products for India and the global market.

The establishment of India’s largest private rail coach factory is a crucial step for Hyderabad and Telangana which contributes to the country’s railway development and technological advancement. Medha Servo Drives’s creative efforts and the Telangana government’s support promise a brighter future for the rail industry, both domestically and internationally.

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Railway Minister Inspects Howrah Metro Station: India’s Deepest Station Set to Redefine Underground Commuting

Staff Reporter

22/06/2023

KOLKATA (Metro Rail News): On 21 June 2023, Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw inspected the Howrah Maidan to Esplanade corridor of Kolkata’s East-West Metro (Green Line), which is about to be operational by the end of this year.

During the visit, Vaishnaw reassured the Kolkata’s Bowbazar district residents that their worries are being considered following three instances of subsidence and damage to homes in four years due to tunnelling work for constructing a Metro line.

Following an inspection of Howrah Maidan station, the minister conducted a trolley inspection through a tunnel and arrived at Howrah station, India’s deepest Metro station, with a depth of 33 metres (108 ft) and four underground levels.
He also inspected an underwater tunnel built 16 metres (52 feet) underneath the Hooghly River. Mr Vaishnaw expressed his delight with the progress of the work, calling it an engineering masterpiece. The minister also addressed the subsidence difficulties at Bowbazar, preventing the entire line from Howrah Maidan to Sector V, Saltlake, from being commissioned.

Mr. Vaishnaw told reporters, “The General Manager of Kolkata Metro is constantly meeting residents of Bowbazar.” Whether it is alternative construction or on-the-ground safety measures, inhabitants of Bowbazar are always engaged.” He added, “I will request that General Manager revisit Bowbazar, hold a camp, and explain the situation to residents in detail,”.
Over ten residences developed cracks in October last year, the third incidence in four years owing to tunnelling work for the Metro corridor.

Two buildings fell, and numerous others developed cracks in the Bowbazar neighbourhood in September 2019 after the underground tunnel-boring equipment struck an aquifer. Similar problems have been observed in May and October 2022.

When completed, the corridor will connect the twin towns of Howrah and Kolkata and handle 6.7 lakh passengers daily. A section of the line from Sealdah Station to Saltlake is already in service.

Apart from visiting Kolkata, Railway Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw examined the Balasore Station renovation plan and talked about the development strategies. Additionally, he carried out a Section Inspection between Jaleswar and Kharagpur and examined station renovation projects at Jaleswar and Kharagpur that were part of the “Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.”Moreover, he looked over the Route Relay Interlocking (RRI) System at Kharagpur and the station’s renovation projects.

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MRVC Invites Tenders for 238 Vande Metro Rakes

Staff Reporter

22/06/2023

MUMBAI (Metro Rail News): The Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation (MRVC) has announced the invitation for tenders for 238 Vande Metro air-conditioned rakes. These trains will be deployed across the suburban networks on the Western Railway (WR) and Central Railway (CR). With a total of 2,856 cars to be procured, this ambitious project will enable the configuration of both 12-car and 15-car trains.

The decision to procure these revolutionary Vande Metro local train rakes was made on May 19, following the approval of Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. Under the “Make in India” guidelines, the trains will be manufactured by the technology partner in their own factories, ensuring a boost to domestic manufacturing capabilities.

Additionally, two depots at Bhivpuri and Vangaon, already approved under MUT (Modified Utilization Triage) and 3A (Agreement for Automatic Assistance and Availability), will be established to facilitate the maintenance of these advanced rakes.

An MRVC official informed, “We plan to finalize the tenders by September, and if all goes according to plan, the first Vande Metro rake can arrive as early as 2026. Following that, a two-year testing phase for the prototype rake will commence. Subsequently, 50 rakes will be delivered each year, with the entire stock expected to be in service by 2030.”While the exact cost of each 12-car rake has not been disclosed by the MRVC, estimates suggest it will be around Rs 90 crore.

These Vande Metro AC trains will primarily replace existing non-AC services, while also creating additional paths to accommodate the increased demand. MRVC will prepare a “migration strategy” before executing plans to introduce more AC services.

The Railways had initially proposed non-AC rakes with automatic door closure facilities. However, concerns were raised by officials regarding the feasibility of this approach on the overcrowded suburban network. The potential for high carbon dioxide levels within closed coaches due to overcrowding was cited as a major obstacle. These concerns were conveyed to the railway board in January 2016, with officials from WR and CR supporting the assertion.

The MRVC, a 50:50 joint venture between the state government and the Ministry of Railways, bears equal responsibility for project costs. Funding for projects executed by the MRVC is released by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) and the City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO).

The procurement of AC rakes had been put on hold since May of the previous year, as the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government failed to release its share of funding. However, on April 3, the uncertainties were resolved following assurances from Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, guaranteeing full cooperation for works under the Mumbai Urban Transport Projects.

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Navi Mumbai Metro Line 1 Receives Final Permission for Commercial Operations with 11 Stations

Staff Reporter

22/06/2023

Navi Mumbai Metro — Representational image only

MUMBAI (Metro Rail News): The City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) received final permission for its commercial operations for the 12-year-long awaited Navi Mumbai Line 1.

The Metro Line 1 is Rs. 3,063.63 crore project that will run from Belapur to Pendhar.

The first phase of NMMP Line No. 1 is from Belapur to Pendhar that covers 11.1 km of distance with 11 stations; Belapur Rly station, Sector-7 Belapur, Science Park, Utsav Chowk, Sector 11 Kharghar, Sector-14 Kharghar, Central Park, Pethapada, Sector-34 Kharghar, Panchanand and Pendhar Terminal along with a car depot for the maintenance at Taloja and Two Traction Sub stations at Panchanand and Kharghar.

On Wednesday, the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) issued the necessary documents to CIDCO to start Commercial Operations on Line 1 of the Navi Mumbai Metro Project (NMMP) between the central park to Belapur Station. In October 2021, CIDCO received a CMRS certificate for the five stations from Pendhar to Central Park on Line No. 1.

During the visit by chief minister Eknath Shinde and deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis to Ulwe, the Navi Mumbai Airport site declared that metro service will be operational soon as the CMRS certification is received.

Following the approval, the CIDCO informed that the service is ready to be operational, and they are waiting for confirmation from the VVIPs for the formal inauguration only.

The Vice Chairman and Managing Director of CIDCO, Anil Diggikar, inspected the metro stations and mentioned that this is a significant Milestone for the Navi Mumbai Metro Project. He added that receiving the CMRS certificate will allow them to commercially begin the metro service in the Belapur to Pendhar station.

About Navi Mumbai Metro Project (NMMP):

The NMMP was initiated in May 2011 by chief minister Prithviraj Chavan with Bhoomipujan in Kharghar. The State government had informed that the metro would be commercial in the city in three years.

The construction and technical aspect of the metro station line no 1 had been given to San Jose Constructora, Mahavir Roads, Supreme Infra JV. Moreover, the contractor delayed the process, so the contract was cancelled.

In February 2021, CIDCO appointed Maharashtra Metro rail Corporation Limited (Maha Metro) to Complete work on Line No 1 at the cost of rs. 850 crore. Later, in July 2021, the CIDCO appointed Maha Metro to operate and maintain service on Line no 1 for 10 years at the cost of rs. 885 crore plus taxes.

Furthermore, CIDCO appointed the Maha Metro as an engineering assistant for the execution of Metro Line No 1 and received a financial line of credit of rs. 500 crore from ICICI Bank toward it. In addition, CIDCO has made provision in its budget this year for the NMMP by allocating designated land to monetise it.

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RLDA Invites Bids for Prime Railway Land Parcels in Seva Nagar and Lodhi Colony

Staff Reporter

21/06/2023

NEW DELHI (Metro Rail News): The Rail Land Development Authority (RLDA) has recently called for bids on lucrative railway land parcels located in Seva Nagar and Lodhi Colony, two prominent areas in Delhi. These sought-after plots are situated in the eastern part of the centrally administered territory, offering developers a golden opportunity to tap into the city’s thriving real estate market. With a total land area of 43,345.82 square meters, the RLDA has divided it into three parts for different types of development projects.

Residential and Redevelopment Opportunities Await in Seva Nagar and Lodhi Colony

The largest portion of the land, spanning 27,282.42 square meters in Seva Nagar Part B, is designated for the redevelopment of existing railway colonies. This move aims to revitalize the housing infrastructure in the area and provide modern and sustainable living spaces for the residents. Additionally, a total of 16,058.40 square meters in Seva Nagar Part A and Lodhi Colony will be leased for residential development, presenting an opportunity for developers to cater to the growing demand for quality housing in these prestigious localities.

Prime Land for Commercial Development in Seva Nagar and Lodhi Colony

Recognizing the potential for commercial growth, the RLDA has set aside a portion of the land in Seva Nagar Part A and Lodhi Colony for commercial development projects. These locations, known for their proximity to significant areas such as Lodhi Colony, Chanakyapuri Diplomatic Enclave, and Golf Link, offer developers a chance to establish high-end commercial spaces in well-established and secure environments. The reserved price for the site stands at an impressive 355 crore rupees, reflecting the value and desirability of these prime locations.

Developers Show Keen Interest in the Project

During the pre-bid meeting held on May 19, 2023, numerous developers enthusiastically participated and displayed a keen interest in the project. Their enthusiasm reflects the allure of the locations and the promising prospects for profitable ventures in these prime areas of Delhi. The RLDA has set the deadline for submitting electronic bids as June 23, 2023, paving the way for a competitive selection process among the interested developers.

Vice-Chairman’s Perspective: Enhancing the City’s Prestige and Progress

Mr. Ved Parkash Dudeja, the Vice-Chairman of RLDA, expressed his admiration for the locations and emphasized their significance in the city’s landscape. He remarked, “Lodhi Colony, Chanakyapuri Diplomatic Enclave, and Golf Link are among the most sought-after locations in the city. These areas not only have prestige but also represent our city’s cultural and economic vitality. The continuous development of these prime areas is an excellent example of the city’s progress and prosperity.”

Seva Nagar and Lodhi Colony: Desirable Living Experiences in New Delhi

Seva Nagar and Lodhi Colony offer residents a truly exceptional living experience in the heart of New Delhi. Seva Nagar boasts a peaceful environment and a strategic location, providing convenient access to amenities and reliable transportation options. It is ideally situated near South Extension and AIIMS, making it an ideal choice for those seeking seamless connectivity within the city. Residents also enjoy close proximity to renowned educational institutions, hospitals, bustling markets, and recreational facilities, ensuring a comfortable and prosperous lifestyle.

Lodhi Colony, on the other hand, is a cultural and residential hub that seamlessly blends history, art, and contemporary life. Its unique appeal lies in its diverse range of surrounding residential complexes, commercial spaces, and prestigious sites. Being India’s first open-air public art district, Lodhi Colony takes pride in its picturesque wall murals, artistic foundation paintings, and lined-up trees. This distinct character invites residents to embrace an extraordinary lifestyle that combines creativity, heritage, and modernity.

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