Anti-collision test on Metro North-South corridor soon

With high-speed tests seeing trains running at 75 kmph on the entire North-South corridor starting Thursday, the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) is gearing up for multiple train anti-collision test before going for service trial runs.

“Multiple train test is a crucial step in ensuring that two trains running on a single track will not collide at any given situation. We station a train at random points on the track and run the other train in full speed. The trains are connected to a central control room, which stops the running train at a safer distance from the stationed car,” said BMRCL Managing Director Pradeep Singh Kharola.

He said the anti-collision test is to ensure that the communication system works in a foolproof manner to prevent accidents. “Multiple trains run on a single track all the time. During peak hours, considering the increase in the frequency of trains, we train the operators to be alert for any eventuality. The communication system is the next layer of protection when the operator fails, which is unlikely,” he said.

After the anti-collision test, Kharola said, an independent assessment of safety will be made by a French agency on May 9. “We believe we will get independent safety assessor’s certificate by May 15, following which we will invite the commissioner of railway safety (CRS) for inspection of the section,” he added.

In between, the BMRCL will also conduct service trials to ensure that there is no glitch in the display boards and announcements of train arrivals and departures.

The CRS certificate is prerequisite for BMRCL to throw open entire Phase 1 for the public. When asked, Kharola refused to comment on the days required for CRS assessment. “The matter involves safety of thousands of commuters. We can’t pressure the commissioner. He will take a call depending on the quality of work,” he said.

Extension of timings likely

The BMRCL has plans to operate Metro trains till 11.30 pm. “It depends on the demand. There are several limitations relating to maintenance. But, we can operate till 11.30 pm if there is good response,” BMRCL Managing Director Pradeep Singh Kharola said. The BMRCL has hired 150 train operators and 200 mechanics to meet the manpower required for the increase in operational work.