Nehru Park Metro line likely to be delayed

DTNext has reliably learnt that the commercial run might be delayed by a few weeks owing to elaborate testing required to be undertaken on the underground network. Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has also cut down the frequency of its test runs on the underground stretch drastically to make way for signalling and platform screen door works. CMRL takes one train ride a week. The first train was taken into the underground route early last month following completion of electrification works. However, the signalling and platform screen door (a protective glass door between the station platform and train) works seem to be consuming more than time than what the authorities had originally anticipated. 

“We are conducting one test run per week because operation of trains in the tunnel affects all other works. Timing of the test runs should not coincide with civil, electrical and mechanical works. Signalling and platform screen door work will continue till the end of February 2017. This is the first time such a platform screen door system on the underground network is being tried and hence we ought to take necessary precautions.,” a senior CMRL officer said, adding that they have scheduled the full-fledged final trial run for February – March. “Once the works and preliminary tests reach a satisfactory level, we will invite the CMRL to inspect the network. We have planned to commission the service on the underground network by March end, but it might get delayed a bit if the works consume time,” another CMRL officer requesting anonymity added.