Chennai Metro Update: Safety Trials Underway on Poonamallee to Porur Route Ahead of Opening
Chennai Metro Rail Begins Test Runs on Poonamallee–Porur
Stretch
Chennai Metro Rail has started important safety trials on
the new metro line between Poonamallee Bypass and Porur Junction.
This is a big step towards opening this route for the public. If everything
goes well, this section will be ready by December 2025.
Why Are These Test Runs Important?
Before opening any metro line, it is important to check if
everything is safe for passengers. These trials are called safety
certification tests. They are carried out by an independent body called the
Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO). RDSO works under the
Ministry of Railways and makes sure that the train, tracks, and other
systems follow all safety rules.
When Did the Tests Start?
The test runs started on August 16, 2025, and they
will continue for about two weeks. During these days, many checks will
be done, including:
- How
smooth the ride is for passengers at different speeds
- How
well the brakes and traction systems work
- Whether
the track quality is good and safe for high-speed trains
How Fast Are the Trains Going?
The test trains are running on Section 1A of Corridor
4, which connects Poonamallee Bypass to Porur Junction. During these trials,
trains are being run at speeds of up to 90 km per hour. At this speed,
the entire stretch can be covered in about nine minutes.
The purpose of running the trains at different speeds is to
check whether they can handle real operating conditions without any problems.
If the train runs smoothly, it means the design and construction are correct.
What Else Is Being Tested?
Apart from speed and ride comfort, engineers are also
checking:
- Emergency
brakes – to make sure the train can stop safely in an emergency
- Door
functions – to confirm that doors open and close correctly
- Signaling
and communication systems – to ensure trains can run safely with
proper signals
- Track
strength – to confirm that the track can handle the load and speed of
metro trains
These tests are necessary before passengers are allowed to
travel on this route.
When Will the Line Open?
The Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) aims to open
this stretch to the public by December 2025. After these trials, some
more work will be done, including finishing touches to stations and getting the
official safety approval.
Why Is This Stretch Important?
The Poonamallee–Porur line is part of Phase II
of the Chennai Metro project. It is about 9.5 km long and has 10
elevated stations. This section will help thousands of people who travel
daily between the western parts of Chennai and the city center. Once this line
opens, it will save time and reduce traffic jams on roads.
This stretch also has special features like a double-decker
viaduct near Kattupakkam, where the metro runs above a flyover. It
is one of the unique engineering designs in Chennai Metro.
What Happens Next?
After completing these tests, CMRL will prepare the line for
public use. At first, trains will have drivers, but later, the metro will move
to driverless operations using advanced technology. This will make the
Chennai Metro one of the most modern metro systems in India.
The start of these trials is a big milestone for Chennai
Metro. It shows that the city is moving closer to having a larger and
better-connected metro network. If all goes as planned, by the end of 2025,
people will be able to travel quickly and safely between Poonamallee and Porur.
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