French multinational Alstom has delivered the first driverless trainset for the Chennai Metro Phase II project. This milestone was confirmed by a senior official on Thursday, marking a pivotal step towards enhancing public transport in the city. Alstom, renowned for its commitment to smart and sustainable mobility, won the order to produce 36 trains, each consisting of three cars, back in February this year.
These state-of-the-art trainsets will operate on a 26-kilometre corridor connecting Poonamallee Bypass to Light House, featuring 28 stations—18 elevated and 10 underground. Manufactured at Alstom’s facility in Sri City, Andhra Pradesh, the project aligns with the Indian government’s ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives, enhancing local manufacturing capabilities. Valued at approximately €124 million, it includes comprehensive training for Chennai Metro personnel in operation and maintenance. These trains promise to provide a more efficient, environmentally friendly, and comfortable travel experience. Alstom India’s Managing Director, Olivier Loison, stated, “Chennai Metro has become a beacon of efficient and reliable transportation.”
The emotional impact of this project on Chennai’s citizens cannot be overstated. Daily commuters often face traffic congestion, which adds stress to their routines. With the introduction of these driverless trains, not only will travel times be reduced, but the overall commuting experience will be elevated. The potential for a smoother, quieter, and faster journey can greatly enhance the quality of life for many residents, allowing them to reclaim precious hours each day.
Designed in Bengaluru and manufactured in Sri City, Alstom’s new trainsets embody a commitment to sustainable transportation. The use of driverless technology significantly reduces emissions, supporting global efforts to combat climate change and promote greener cities. Each train helps ease road congestion and lowers the carbon footprint of urban travel. Alstom’s history with Chennai Metro began in 2010, with the delivery of 208 metro cars for Phase I. The introduction of these driverless trains for Phase II marks a pivotal shift towards a connected, sustainable urban future, addressing urbanization challenges and enhancing mobility for residents.s a modern transport system is well underway.
