CMRL Signs Supplementary Contract with Alstom for Driverless Trains

On November 27th, 2023, Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) solidified a supplementary contract with M/s Alstom Transport India Limited, marking a significant development in enhancing the city's metro rail network. This supplementary agreement, valued at INR 269 Crore inclusive of taxes and duties, focuses on procuring an additional 10 train sets, each comprising a 3-car formation, all equipped with Driverless (UTO – Unattended Train Operation) technology.

The signing ceremony was presided over by Mr. Rajesh Chaturvedi, Director (Systems and Operations) of CMRL, and Mr. Rajeev Joisar, Commercial Director – India & South Asia at Alstom Transport India Limited. Noteworthy dignitaries such as Mr. A.R. Rajendran, CGM (RS), along with senior officials and staff from both CMRL and Alstom Transport India Ltd., graced the occasion.

This supplementary agreement, an extension of the original ARE-03A contract awarded to M/s Alstom Transport India Limited on November 17th, 2022, aims to bolster the city's metro network by augmenting the fleet with an additional 10 train sets. The original contract obligated the supply of 26 Driverless (UTO – Unattended Train Operation) train sets, each comprising a 3-car formation (totaling 78 cars).

With the signing of this supplementary agreement, the total number of trains to be procured from M/s Alstom Transport India Limited increases to 36, encompassing 3-car formations (totaling 108 cars). The comprehensive contract encompasses the provision of driverless trains, inclusive of design, manufacturing, rigorous testing, commissioning of standard gauge metro rolling stock, personnel training, spare parts supply, and defect liability coverage.

Anticipated to be completed within approximately 28 months, these trains are scheduled to be maintained and operated from the maintenance depot under construction in Poonamallee, part of Metro Corridor-4. This augmentation signifies a substantial step towards enhancing the efficiency and capacity of Chennai's metro rail network, promising improved commuting experiences for its residents.

News by Rahul Yelligetti