Mumbai Secures 39 Driverless Trains for Metro Line 4
Mumbai Metro’s Line 4 is set to receive a major technological and infrastructural upgrade. A new agreement has been signed between global mobility leader Alstom and engineering major Larsen & Toubro, under which Alstom will provide 39 driverless Metropolis trainsets and an advanced Communication Based Train Control (CBTC) signalling system. This project, valued at several hundred million euros, is a pivotal development for Mumbai’s public transport network. The initiative underscores a commitment to creating an eco-friendly and efficient transit system that is vital for the city’s future as a zero-net-carbon and equitable metropolis.
The 35.3 km-long Green Line, which will connect Wadala to Kasarvadavali with 32 elevated stations, is one of the most ambitious projects in the city’s metro expansion. The new trains and signalling system are designed to reduce travel time significantly, alleviate road congestion, and lower the city’s carbon footprint by encouraging a modal shift from private vehicles to public transport. This focus on driverless, high-capacity trains is a forward-thinking approach that prioritises both efficiency and environmental sustainability. By providing a safe, reliable, and comfortable commuting option, the project is set to enhance the quality of life for millions of Mumbaikars.
A key feature of this deal is its alignment with the Government of India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative. All 39 trainsets, which consist of 234 metro cars, will be designed and manufactured domestically, with a significant portion of the work distributed across different states. The engineering centre in Bengaluru will handle the design, while the production will take place at Alstom’s facility in Sri City, Andhra Pradesh. The propulsion systems will be manufactured in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, and the bogies will be produced in Savli, Gujarat. This localisation strategy is set to boost local industry and create skilled jobs, fostering economic growth and self-reliance within the country’s manufacturing sector.
The technology at the core of this upgrade is Alstom’s global-leading CBTC system, which will enable Grade of Automation 4 (GoA4), the highest level of automation. This will allow for fully driverless operations, optimising train movements, and ensuring high-frequency services with minimal human intervention. The system will be managed from a central Operations Control Centre, with a backup centre in place to guarantee operational safety and redundancy. The trains themselves are equipped with features designed for passenger comfort and accessibility, including interior airflow cooling, designated spaces for wheelchairs and bicycles, and robust cybersecurity measures to protect the modern infrastructure from threats.
Beyond the initial supply, the agreement includes a five-year maintenance contract, which will ensure the long-term reliability and performance of the fleet. This proactive approach to maintenance is essential for maintaining the high standards of service and passenger safety. This latest contract builds on Alstom’s significant contributions to Mumbai’s metro network, including the supply of trains and signalling for other key lines. The seamless integration of these advanced systems across the network is a testament to the city’s commitment to building a world-class public transport system that is both intelligent and sustainable, paving the way for a more connected and equitable future for all citizens.
