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Chennai Metro Rail has made progress toward starting Phase II services on the Poonamallee-Vadapalani stretch. The Railway Board has given its final approval for the trains that will run on this route. This clears the way for passenger services to begin in February. However, one important step is still
pending. Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) must get safety clearance for the stations on this stretch from the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS).
Chennai Metro Phase II
The trains for the 118.9-km Phase II project are designed to run without drivers. Even so, for safety reasons, trained staff will operate the trains for at least the first six months. After this period, roving attendants are expected to remain on board for some time before the system becomes fully driverless.
Manufacturing of Trains
CMRL officials said that around three weeks ago, a CMRS expert team inspected two trains planned for the 15-km Poonamallee-Vadapalani route. The trains were manufactured at Sri City near Chennai. During the inspection, the team checked many safety-related features needed for passenger operations.
They tested the passenger communication system to ensure commuters can contact the Operation Control Centre during emergencies. They also checked smoke detectors for fire safety, systems that respond to problems in the train's underframe equipment, and the traction system. The trains were run at a speed of 80 kmph during trials. Although the trains are designed for 90 kmph, they will be allowed to operate at a maximum of 80 kmph.
Testings
The team also studied collision simulations and tested emergency brakes to measure stopping distance. Moreover, they reviewed emergency evacuation plans, including how passengers would be safely guided to the nearest station if a train stops between stations.
The final CMRS inspection, expected in the second week of February, will focus on passenger facilities at stations between Poonamallee, Porur, and Vadapalani. Stations from Porur Junction to Saligramam will open a few months later.
