Saidapet-AG-DMS Metro line trial run
Posted on: 14/Mar/2018 11:46:32 AM
A trial run of the underground line from Saidapet to AG-DMS stations on Monday by the Chennai Metro Rail Limited, or CMRL.
This is a mandatory exercise that has to be carried out before the opening of this stretch in May. During trial run, trains are operated back and forth to test the working of various systems. Once Chennai Metro Rail starts services on this stretch, commuters can take a direct ride from AG-DMS station to the Chennai airport.
Speaking about this, an official said, Around 1 p.m., the train that departed from Little Mount station (which is already operational) went underground through a ramp to the Saidapet station. It moved at a speed of 35 km per hour and reached AG-DMS in half an hour. It will take less than half hour when the services start in May. Today, it took half hour since we stopped at every station to check for any possible issues.
Sources say that the trial run was carried out only on downward track. While officials claim the other track (upward track) is also ready, it is not clear why the trial run was not carried out.
Eight months ago, for the first time, Chennai Metro Rail tested a locomotive on this stretch. After completion of electrical and signalling work and integration of these systems, trial run began on Monday. This exercise will continue till the operations begin on this stretch in May.
Before this stretch is thrown open to public, one last inspection by Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety will be done in late April or early May and after they give their approval, the operations will start.
