Delhi Metro: Trials for signal system on Pink Line commence

The exercise is taking place on a 20-km stretch on the upcoming 58.59 km long line. Express

Trials for the new-age Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) signal system on the upcoming Pink Line of the Delhi Metro, running between Majlis Park and Shiv Vihar, began on Friday. The exercise is taking place on a 20-km stretch on the upcoming 58.59 km-long line, between Durgabai Deshmukh South Campus and Majlis Park.

“These trials will test maximum automation of the new Metro trains, which are equipped with Unattended Train Operations (UTO) and CBTC signalling system. This enables the movement of trains with a frequency of about 90 to 100 seconds, thus significantly enhancing the carrying capacity of the Delhi Metro system,” said the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC).

This is the first time the trials are being held on such a long line, according to DMRC. The Pink Line is the longest corridor of the Delhi Metro so far. Calling this trial a “significant step ahead towards the eventual commissioning of the stretch”, the DMRC said that “trial runs were started between Mayapuri and Shakurpur (6.5 km) on this corridor in June, while last month, a train had passed through the Delhi Metro system’s highest point at Dhaula Kuan for the first time”.

With this, the Delhi Metro will also begin regular trials at the Metro’s highest point at Dhaula Kuan — at a height of 23.6 metres (as high as a seven-storey building). Meanwhile, signalling trials are already in progress on the Magenta Line — between Botanical Garden in Noida and Kalkaji Mandir stations as well as between Janakpuri West and Terminal 1, IGI Airport.

By October-end, services are expected to begin between Botanical Garden and Kalkaji Mandir.