Kolkata Metro is installing a state-of-the-art signalling system worth Rs 800 crore to enable driverless train operations on two additional routes, an official said on Thursday (May 23). This advanced signalling system, which is used in countries like Spain and Denmark, allows trains to operate without motormen, who are referred to as drivers in Metro terminology.
Within the next five years, the entire Kolkata Metro network will be equipped with the CBTC system’s ATO (Automatic Train Operations) mode. In ATO mode, motormen’s roles are limited to pressing buttons to close doors and start the train.
Kolkata Metro routes to adopt driverless technology
The Communication Based Train Control (CBTC) system is being implemented on the Joka-Esplanade and Kavi Subhash-Biman Bandar Metro corridors. The officials also disclosed that the high-tech system is already in use on the East-West Metro corridor.
The CBTC system will also be installed on the 40-year-old North-South (Dakshineswar-New Garia) Corridor, India’s first Metro line, with Rs 500 crore allocated for the project.
“This state-of-the-art signalling system is very safe and gives flexibility to train operations,” he added.