Chennai Metro receives first driverless train for phase II project


Chennai Metro has received its first driverless trainset for the Phase II project from French multinational Alstom, a leader in smart and sustainable mobility. In February 2024, Chennai Metro ordered 36 trains, each comprising three cars.

These trains are designed to run on a 26-kilometer corridor connecting Poonamallee Bypass to Light House, featuring 28 stations—18 elevated and 10 underground.

According to a company statement, the new driverless trains aim to offer passengers an efficient, eco-friendly, and comfortable travel experience. The designs were created in Bengaluru.

The trainsets, manufactured at Alstom’s facility in Sri City, Andhra Pradesh, align with the Indian government’s ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives. Valued at €124 million, the project also encompasses training Chennai Metro personnel in train operation and maintenance.

Alstom previously supplied 208 metro cars for Phase I of the Chennai Metro Rail project in 2010. With the delivery of this first driverless trainset for Phase II, the company reinforces its commitment to enhancing Chennai’s mobility infrastructure.

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