Chennai Metro Targets December Launch for Porur-Poonamallee Line; Check Stations Details

Chennai Metro: Chennai is set to enhance the city's public transport with the upcoming Porur-Poonamallee line. Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) aims for a December launch of this 9.5-kilometre elevated stretch, which is currently undergoing full-scale testing.

On Friday, CMRL successfully conducted the first downline trial train run from Porur to Poonamallee. This follows earlier tests on the upline, conducted in May, as per a TOI report. The route features 10 elevated stations and connects to the Poonamallee Depot, which will serve as the central control hub for future operations.

During the trial, the train operated at a low speed of 20 km/h for safety validation. CMRL Managing Director M A Siddique stated, "The same train will return on the upline at full speed today." Future speed trials will gradually increase up to 70 km/h, the design speed for this line. Over the next three to four months, CMRL will conduct tests on all six Alstom-supplied train sets, assess rolling stock performance, and initiate signal system trials.

The new line is designed for Unattended Train Operation (UTO), which will allow for driverless trains in the future. Siddique explained, "Initially, trains will be operated with a person onboard. Once confidence is built and systems stabilise, the operation will be fully driverless." This innovative approach aims to improve efficiency and safety in the metro system.

A notable feature of the stretch includes a double-decker segment at Kattupakkam, where the viaduct runs above a highway. This section was completed last month despite facing labour mobilisation challenges. Additionally, CMRL inaugurated the newly commissioned Auxiliary Substation at Poonamallee Bypass on Friday, which is powered by a 33 kV supply from the depot's receiving station. This substation energises key traction and station systems for the trial runs.