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Tracks of Progress & Sustainability

Tracks of Progress & Sustainability: Unveiling India’s First Underwater Metro

Kolkata has achieved a historical landmark. India’s first Metro was commissioned in this historical city in 1984.¹ Now, the city is achieving a groundbreaking milestone by introducing the nation’s first-ever underwater metro² – Kolkata East-West Metro.

Kolkata has achieved a historical landmark

Playing an instrumental role in this milestone achievement, Hitachi Rail STS India collaborated with Kolkata Metro Rail Corporation (KMRC) and delivered a robust signalling and telecom system for India’s first underwater metro, gliding under the Hugli River!

This project ensures safer and expedited commutes between three adjoining regions namely Howrah (Industrial Hub), Sealdah (one of India’s busiest railway stations) and Salt Lake Sector V (IT Hub), thus bringing the community closer while strategically addressing traffic congestion and environmental pollution.

Unveiling India’s First Underwater Metro

Hitachi Rail’s Pioneering Solutions for Kolkata Metro:

CBTC
TETRA Network Coverage

The Terrestrial Trunked Radio (TETRA) network covers the entire tunnel length, ensuring independent communication for smooth operations, regardless of external agencies.

Semi-Automatic Train Operations

Hitachi’s solution enables the metro to operate at Grade of Automation GoA Level 2 (Degree of automation where GoA 0 is no automation and GoA is fully automated). Here, driver intervention is only required to start the train from any station.

Wireless Communication

CBTC system relies on wireless communication, reducing failures due to cable shorting and tampering, ensuring maximum uptime for train operation.

Security and Safety

Provides multiple levels of security by controlling and monitoring systems such as tunnel ventilation, platform screen doors, building management, and fire protection, enhancing safety in case of incidents.

Redundancy

Hitachi Rail STS India designed the system to withstand single-point failures, ensuring uninterrupted day-to-day operation of the metro, a critical public commodity.

Telecom Solution
Passenger Announcement System

Enables timely and clear communication with passengers, enhancing safety protocols and providing essential information during emergencies.

Passenger Information Display System

Keeps commuters informed about schedules, routes, and important announcements, improving the overall passenger experience.

Comprehensive Telecom Systems

Hitachi Rail STS India delivered 11 telecom systems, covering CCTV, access control, passenger information display, and passenger announcement, enhancing operational efficiency and convenience for both operators and commuters.

CCTV Coverage

Ensures surveillance throughout the metro route, enhancing security and providing real-time monitoring for incident response.

Access Control

Facilitates controlled access to metro facilities, contributing to safety and preventing unauthorized entry.

By leveraging its Digital Technologies, Green Technologies, and Innovation capabilities, Hitachi is powering good by ushering seamless commutes that not only elevate the passenger experience but protect the planetary boundaries for a sustainable future.

 

Sources:
 
  1. https://mtp.indianrailways.gov.in/view_section.jsp?lang=0&id=0,1,334
  2. https://www.livemint.com/news/india/how-kolkata-is-creating-history-with-india-s-first-underwater-metro-explained-11682172637575.html

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