Chennai Metro: Being Digital

Digitising the Metro

Bansal reveals that CMRL is in the process of upgrading the existing automatic gates to accept Q.R code tickets from mobile phones and accept payments from NCMC (National Common Mobility Card) from NPCI along with the account-based ticketing to enable passengers to use their contactless bank cards. It will enhance the digital adoption of the ticketing in the overall Metro system. CMRL is also the first Metro in the country that adopted the CMRL Travel Card for collection of parking fares and fares for last mile connectivity in feeder services. The feeder service is an app-based system and commuters can track feeder vehicles from the CMRL mobile app and also reserve seats from the same.

Optimising Efficiency Through ITS, Big Data

A mass transit system like Chennai Metro calls for a high level of safety on a day-to-day basis; be it the project execution or train operations. Bansal adds, “We have installed a robust signalling system conforming to (SIL-4) i.e., safety integrity level-4.”

He further explains, “The Automatic Train Control System is an integration of Automatic Train Supervision System, Automatic Train Protection System and a very complex interlocking system. Trains can run in automatic mode controlled from the operation control centre located at the admin building. Hardware and software of these systems have undergone two levels of rigorous validation process and certification to ensure the highest safety standard.”

CMRL has installed a full height platform screen doors in underground stations. These doors are synchronised with signaling system to ensure high level of safety. Apart from the aesthetic look, these doors serve two primary roles:

a) Prevent passengers from falling into the track accidentally.
b) Saves energy by effectively reducing the air-conditioning requirement.

The CMRL has also installed wireless communication system to regulate train operation and CCTV surveillance system that are monitored round the clock.

Monitoring, fault identification, localisation and rectification is effectively managed through network management systems and fault management center through an efficient asset management system. The collected data are collated, sorted, processed and used for decision making.