Chennai Metro Gets Approval for Driverless Train Service Between Poonamallee and Vadapalani
In a major boost to urban transportation, Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has received official approval to operate driverless metro trains between Poonamallee and Vadapalani under Phase 2 of the Chennai Metro project.
The clearance was granted by Railway Safety Commissioner A.M. Chowdhary after a detailed four-day inspection of the corridor.
Key Highlights
- Chennai Metro Phase 2 is being developed across 118.9 km.
- Corridor 4 (Poonamallee to Lighthouse) spans around 26 km.
- The first operational stretch will be between Poonamallee and Vadapalani.
- Successful trial runs of the driverless metro trains have already been completed.
- Safety certification has now been officially issued.
Safety Inspection & Trial Details
Before granting approval, authorities conducted extensive evaluations including:
- Track quality and structural integrity
- Passenger safety systems
- Coach design and onboard facilities
- Signaling and automated train control systems
Metro trains were tested at speeds of 80–90 km/h to assess operational safety and passenger comfort.
On the final day of inspection, the train was operated directly from the Operations Control Centre to verify the driverless automation system.
