Kolkata’s metro system has achieved a significant technological milestone with the introduction of a new Terrestrial Trunked Radio (TETRA) communication system on its Blue and Yellow Lines. This upgrade is a crucial step towards enhancing passenger safety and operational efficiency, particularly in the underground sections of the network. The system is designed to provide seamless and uninterrupted communication between train operators, station staff, and the central control room, ensuring a swift and coordinated response during emergencies. This move is a testament to the city’s commitment to building a more resilient, safe, and efficient public transport infrastructure that serves the larger interest of a modern, equitable city.
The TETRA system, a digital trunked radio standard, is more reliable and secure than traditional communication networks, especially in challenging environments like metro tunnels. Its implementation is part of a larger strategic initiative to modernise the Kolkata Metro and bring its operational standards on par with global benchmarks. Officials have noted that this technology will play a pivotal role in minimising disruptions caused by unforeseen incidents, including emergency situations. The ability to maintain a continuous, clear line of communication is paramount for a quick and effective response, which can be the difference between a minor delay and a major crisis.
One of the most compelling aspects of this technological upgrade is its potential to address a recurring and deeply distressing issue on the Blue Line: incidents of suicide and suicide attempts. While the TETRA system does not offer a physical barrier like the Platform Screen Doors (PSDs) installed on newer lines, it is a powerful tool for a more humane and rapid response. In the event of such an incident, the system ensures that rescue and recovery teams can be mobilised instantly and with precision. This not only aids in humanitarian efforts but also significantly reduces the downtime of the service, minimising inconvenience for thousands of commuters who rely on the metro for their daily travel. This approach of using technology to manage societal challenges is a hallmark of a gender-neutral and compassionate city.
The new system has been seamlessly integrated with existing communication networks on the Purple and Orange Lines, creating a unified and robust system across four key metro routes. This interoperability ensures that there are no communication gaps, allowing for a coordinated response across the city’s transit network. The project, implemented by a global leader in communication solutions, includes a suite of modern equipment from handheld radios for staff to sophisticated units within the train cabs. This extensive rollout highlights a commitment to a comprehensive and integrated safety strategy, rather than a piecemeal approach.
Ultimately, the introduction of the TETRA communication system is a tangible step towards building a safer, more reliable, and zero-net-carbon urban transport system. By investing in technology that enhances operational efficiency and safety, the Kolkata Metro is not only improving the daily lives of its commuters but also setting a positive example for other public transit systems. This focus on leveraging advanced systems for social and operational good is a key component of a vision for a smart city where infrastructure is designed to serve the needs of all its citizens, and where human well-being is a paramount consideration.
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