Chennai Metro Rail Limited has begun safety certification trials on Phase-2, Stage-1A, covering the Poonamallee Bypass–Porur Junction section. Conducted by RDSO, these tests will evaluate ride comfort, traction, and braking performance at speeds up to 90 kmph, ensuring passenger safety before public operations begin.
Introduction:
Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has taken a significant step forward in its Phase-2 expansion project by commencing safety certification trials on the Poonamallee Bypass–Porur Junction stretch under Stage-1A. These trials, which started on 16th August 2025, represent an achievement in preparing the new corridor for passenger operations.
The tests are being undertaken by the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO), an external independent agency under the Ministry of Railways, in accordance with rules governing certification of metro rail coaches and infrastructure.
Scope of Trials:
The ongoing trials will continue for nearly two weeks and will focus on a range of safety and performance parameters, including:
- Ride Comfort Assessment: Evaluating passenger comfort across varying speeds up to the design limit of 90 kmph.
- Traction Performance: Measuring the power delivery and response of metro trains across the corridor.
- Braking Efficiency: Ensuring optimal braking performance for safety under normal and emergency conditions.
- Track Verification: Conducting detailed inspections of track alignment and stability.
The objective is to ensure that the new metro corridor fully complies with safety standards mandated by the Ministry of Railways and Government of India.
Leadership Presence and Oversight:
The safety certification trials were personally witnessed by Thiru. M.A. Siddique, I.A.S., Managing Director of CMRL, along with senior leadership, including:
- Shri T. Archunan, Director (Projects)
- Shri S. Krishnamurthy, Director (Finance)
- Shri Manoj Goyal, Director (Systems & Operations)
- Shri A.R. Rajendran, Chief General Manager (RS, S&T)
Also present were general consultants and senior officials of CMRL, marking the significance of this milestone in the project timeline.
Insight:
Shri M.A. Siddique, I.A.S., MD, CMRL, said, “The commencement of safety certification trials marks achievement of a significant milestone in the progress of the Phase-2 Project of CMRL. These trials, being conducted along the viaduct Section 1A, covering the stretch from Poonamallee Bypass to Porur Junction at 90 kmph and covered the distance within 9 minutes. We reaffirm our commitment to meeting the highest standards of safety and reliability. With steady progress, we are moving closer to commissioning the project for the benefit of the public.”
Significance of the Trials:
- Marks one of the final steps before passenger services begin on the corridor.
- Validates the performance of new rolling stock and infrastructure.
- Demonstrates CMRL’s emphasis on public safety and operational excellence.
- Boosts confidence in Phase-2 timelines, covering wider stretches across Chennai.
Conclusion:
The safety certification trials on the Poonamallee Bypass–Porur Junction stretch highlights CMRL’s move towards expanding Chennai’s metro network. By meeting strict safety standards under RDSO supervision, CMRL is ensuring reliability and passenger safety, marking a strategic step toward commissioning Phase-2 for public service.
Source: CMRL | Image Credit (representational): CMRL
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