In a momentous event at its cutting-edge manufacturing facility in Sricity, Alstom kick-started the production of its state-of-the-art Metropolis trainsets for the highly anticipated Chennai Metro Phase II. The groundbreaking project, valued at € 124 million, aims to deliver 36 metro trainsets, each comprising three cars, capable of reaching a top speed of 80 kmph.
The production ceremony, attended by leaders from Chennai Metro Rail Ltd and Alstom India, marked the beginning of a venture that not only emphasises innovation but also contributes significantly to the socio-economic development of the region. The trains are designed to cover a 26 km corridor, connecting Poonamallee Bypass to Light House via 28 stations, including 10 underground and 18 elevated stations.
Olivier Loison, Managing Director, Alstom India, expressed enthusiasm, stating, “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.”
The project includes a comprehensive package, featuring a 25 KV power supply for optimal energy efficiency and a total investment that encompasses not just the trainsets but also personnel training for operation and maintenance. Alstom’s Metropolis metros are poised to ensure safe and reliable passenger transport for over 11 million citizens of Chennai, contributing to the city’s connectivity and growth.
M A Siddique, I.A.S, Managing Director, CMRL, highlighted the transformative impact of Chennai Metro, stating, “CMRL will be introducing Driver-less trains in Phase-II, prioritizing safety and passenger comfort. We are happy that our first set of driverless trains will be manufactured near Chennai by Alstom.”
The metro system, designed to accommodate up to 1,000 passengers per three-car train, boasts impressive features such as a women-friendly travel experience, dedicated spaces for differently-abled individuals, and enhanced security through CCTV cameras. The trains, set to operate driverless with Unattended Train Operations (UTO), incorporate advanced passenger announcement systems and obstacle detection for swift issue resolution.
The design highlights of the trains for Chennai Metro Phase II pay homage to the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu, with exterior masks inspired by Indian classical dance form ‘Mudras’ and saloon draught screens reflecting the traditional art form ‘Kolam.’ Additionally, the introduction of Perch seats, a first in India, enhances passenger experience and comfort.
Scheduled to be operational by the end of 2025, the Chennai Metro Phase II, with Alstom’s innovative Metropolis trains, is poised to redefine urban transportation in the region, focusing on comfort, safety, and environmental responsibility.