Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) is set to achieve a significant milestone as it plans to commence testing of driverless trains before April 2025. This testing is part of the first phase of commissioning the 9-km stretch from Poonamallee to Porur junction, under Corridor 4 of Phase II construction. The corridor is expected to be operational by December 2025.Sharp Curves and Innovative Designs
One of the unique challenges of this phase is the sharpest curve in the Chennai Metro network, with a 127.55-metre radius at Porur. To address this, CMRL has introduced a pioneering composite girder design, the first of its kind in India. These girders allow rail tracks to be laid in a curved manner, ensuring smooth operations despite sharp bends.
This innovative design, first implemented in Chennai, has already inspired other metro projects. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has adopted the same approach for its ongoing construction in Patna. “The DMRC has completed the design for its Patna Metro construction based on this model. While this is a first in India, similar designs have been successfully used in Seoul, South Korea,” said T. Archunan, Director of Projects, CMRL.
Stretching 26.1 km from Light House to Poonamallee Bypass, Corridor 4 is a critical component of Phase II. This elevated line is witnessing rapid progress, with track-laying operations in full swing. As a priority corridor, it aims to enhance connectivity across key suburban and urban areas in Chennai, facilitating faster and more efficient transportation.
The driverless train technology marks a significant leap in urban transit, promising enhanced safety, precision, and efficiency. With testing slated to begin in less than six months, CMRL is poised to join the ranks of global metro networks leveraging advanced automation for seamless operations.
The successful commissioning of Corridor 4 will not only boost Chennai’s metro connectivity but also set benchmarks in engineering and technology for metro projects across the country.