The Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has postponed the much-anticipated trial run of its driverless train, originally slated for October 26, following unexpected weather disruptions. The first driverless train, a critical component of Chennai’s upcoming Phase II Metro project, arrived at the Poonamallee Depot last week from Sri City. Following delays in the trial, CMRL sources suggest that the new test date may occur next week or potentially after Deepavali. This event signifies a significant milestone for Chennai’s urban transport, with the city on course to become one of India’s forerunners in driverless metro technology.
The trial run of the three-coach train on the depot’s test track was initially scheduled for October 18 but was postponed due to the week’s persistent rainfall. The driverless train has undergone a series of preparatory procedures, with technicians conducting rigorous static tests on the newly assembled train. Sources indicate that arrangements were nearly complete, with decorations and stage setups in place. However, CMRL delayed the event to ensure operational readiness and public safety, with no official clarification on why the trial was deferred. As a step toward sustainable urban mobility, the eventual launch of this driverless train trial is a pivotal moment for Chennai, anticipated by both the public and policymakers.
This postponed event coincides with an upcoming visit from Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar to the CMRL office. Expected discussions are likely to revolve around the progress of the ₹63,246-crore Phase II expansion project, projected to reshape the city’s transit framework by 2025. The ongoing Phase II corridor, specifically the Poonamallee-to-Porur stretch, forms a critical part of Chennai’s infrastructure aimed at accommodating the city’s expanding commuter base. The upcoming trial of the driverless train aligns with efforts to introduce more environmentally conscious, efficient transport alternatives to reduce congestion and emissions, supporting Chennai’s broader sustainability goals.
While the Phase II project is earmarked for a December 2025 launch, trials on this stretch of the Poonamallee–Porur viaduct will span several months, ensuring comprehensive evaluations of operational safety. The shift towards driverless technology in public transport is seen as a cornerstone in reducing human intervention and enhancing safety in urban commuting, as evidenced by metro systems worldwide. These automated trains are expected to bring about lower operational costs, optimised schedules, and an eco-friendlier commuting option, especially given Chennai’s longstanding battle with rising pollution and carbon emissions.
As Chennai’s urban population continues to grow, the Metro’s driverless train trial is a pioneering step in reimagining sustainable city transportation. Beyond easing vehicular load on roads, these advancements also signal Chennai’s evolving transport priorities, driven by technology and sustainability. With the city’s metro infrastructure progressing steadily, the rollout of driverless technology offers a beacon of hope for efficient, green, and modern commuting options, reflecting the city’s commitment to sustainable growth and improved quality of urban life.
