Delhi Metro To Induct 312 New Coaches Under Phase IV Expansion, Equipped For Driverless Operations

Delhi Metro is set to add around 312 new coaches to its network as part of the Phase IV expansion, with the induction expected shortly after inspection and clearance from the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS), accoding to Times of India report.

The first corridor under Phase IV — Majlis Park to Maujpur is anticipated to become operational later this year.

Awarded to Alstom Transport India Limited in October 2022, the contract covers the design, manufacture and supply of the new trains.

"These metro trains, comprising six coaches, are being procured by Delhi Metro for its phase IV operations. These trains underwent rigorous testing and commissioning, including the completion of oscillations and emergency brake distance trials conducted by the Research Designs and Standards Organisation. The trains will be inducted into public service shortly after CMRS inspection and clearance," a Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) official was quoted as saying by ToI.

The trains, designed for driverless operations, align with the "Make in India" initiative, boasting more than 90 per cent indigenous content.

"Coaches have been designed with a tri-colour theme (saffron, white and green) for easy identification during driverless operation from the Operations Control Centre (OCC)," the official said, adding that high-resolution CCTV systems have been fitted for enhanced monitoring.

Engineered for a maximum speed of 95 kmph and operational speed up to 85 kmph, the coaches also feature improved passenger amenities such as larger display units and charging points.

"They are designed for the optimisation of noise performance. All materials used in car construction are chosen carefully to optimise the carbon footprint. Construction material selection and testing were done as per international standards," the official noted.

Of the 312 coaches, 144 will be deployed on the Janakpuri West–RK Ashram Marg extension of the Magenta Line, 90 on the Majlis Park–Maujpur extension of the Pink Line, and 78 on the new Aerocity–Tughlakabad Golden Line.

Delhi Metro currently runs 350 trains across a 394 km network with 289 stations.

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