Chennai Metro begins safety trials on Poonamallee–Porur stretch

The Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has started the safety certification trials in the western corridor of Phase 2, heading closer to the opening of passenger services on the very busy Poonamallee-Porur route.

The trials were begun by CMRL MD MA Siddique along the elevated stretch between the Poonamallee Bypass and Porur Junction under Stage 1A of the 118.9-km Phase 2 expansion on August 16. The 9-km run between Poonamallee and Porur was completed in just nine minutes during the first round of testing, confirmed CMRL MD MA Siddique.

The Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO), the technical body under the Ministry of Railways, is conducting these certification trials. For opening the corridor to commuters, these checks must be done. Trains are being tested at design limit speeds of up to 90 kmph, to measure Critical safety parameters and performance parameters, which include ride comfort, traction and braking efficiency, and track reliability.

“This trial is a landmark event in Phase 2. We move towards commissioning this project in the benefit of the public with the strictest adherence to safety standards,” said Siddique.

According to officials, the entire process is expected to be done in about two weeks. If the result is satisfactory, the corridor shall soon be opened for operations and will provide a faster, safer travel solution for the residents of the western suburbs.

Senior CMRL officials have reported that the trial runs were attended by Directors T Archunan (Projects), S Krishnamurthy (Finance), Manoj Goyal (Systems & Operations), and Chief General Manager A R Rajendran, along with general consultants.

In fact, the Poonamallee-Porur section will become one of the very important links in the Phase II project in reducing traffic congestion and providing better last-mile connectivity to rapidly developing parts of the western side of the city. As soon as trials are conducted, commuters should not have to wait much longer for the official launch of the corridor.