Chennai Metro Phase II First Trial Delayed
The Chennai Metro’s Phase II network faced unexpected delays on Thursday evening, due to technical glitches in the overhead equipment. Originally scheduled to begin around 5 p.m. at the Poonamallee Depot, the trial run was postponed and eventually started at 11.30 p.m., with the train travelling for 3 km before reaching Mullaithottam around midnight.
According to officials from Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL), the delay was caused by multiple technical issues with the overhead equipment. Around 6 p.m., a cable on the viaduct, about one kilometre from the depot, snapped, resulting in sparks for a few seconds. This caused a brief disruption to the trial, and repair work was immediately carried out. Despite the setback, the trial run proceeded, although it was delayed by several hours. While the train was designed to be driverless, it was operated by a driver during this trial phase to ensure safety and proper functioning of the systems. The train travelled at a speed of around 15 km/h, allowing the team to assess the train’s operations in real-time.
The trial run is part of the ongoing testing for Corridor 4 of the Phase II expansion, which covers a stretch of 26.1 km from Poonamallee Bypass to Light House. Currently, construction and system installations are underway, particularly on the 9-km stretch between Poonamallee Bypass and Porur Junction. Once fully operational, this expanded network will significantly improve Chennai’s public transport system, offering commuters a more efficient and eco-friendly alternative to road travel. Officials from CMRL have stated that the trial runs are expected to continue daily, with ongoing assessments to resolve any technical issues. The Phase II project is part of a larger vision to provide Chennai with a modern, sustainable metro network that can accommodate the city’s growing population and transportation needs.
The trial’s delay highlights the challenges faced during the implementation of such a large-scale infrastructure project. Despite the hiccups, the continued progress of Phase II signals that Chennai is moving closer to completing one of its most ambitious urban transport projects.
