The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has marked a historic milestone with the unveiling of India’s first driverless metro trainset, an initiative under the ‘Make in India’ programme. This development signals a significant leap towards modernising urban transportation and enhancing passenger convenience across the national capital. DMRC Managing Director expressed the occasion’s importance, stating, “Today is a historic occasion for the Delhi Metro family as we take another major step towards operationalising the Phase 4 corridors.”
The inaugural trainset, dispatched from Alstom’s facility in Sri City, Andhra Pradesh, is equipped with Grade of Automation (GOA) 4 driverless technology. This advanced system allows for safe operational speeds of up to 85 km/h and a maximum speed of 95 km/h. The new trainsets are set to serve three key lines within the Delhi Metro network, including two extensions and the new Gold Line 10, covering a total of 64.67 km. This project, valued at €312 million, not only exemplifies DMRC’s commitment to modernisation but also represents a major outsourcing initiative to an original equipment manufacturer (OEM). Alstom Managing Director Olivier Loison highlighted the significance of this collaboration, noting that the trainsets will significantly enhance the quality of life for citizens and contribute to the city’s development. He remarked, “We are committed to creating sustainable, future-proof solutions that stand the test of time.”
The order for these trainsets was awarded in November 2022 as part of a strategic effort to operationalise the Phase 4 corridors, which aims to introduce a total of 52 trainsets, each comprising six cars. With the first trainset ready for operation, this initiative stands as a testament to India’s burgeoning infrastructure development and its strides toward self-reliance. From a sustainability perspective, the introduction of driverless metro trains aligns with global trends towards reducing urban congestion and emissions. By integrating advanced technology, the DMRC aims to foster a more eco-friendly transit system that not only meets the growing demands of urban mobility but also addresses climate change challenges.
