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The Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has signed a INR 48.33 crore contract with Faiveley Transport Rail Technologies India Pvt Ltd to install an anti-drag passenger door safety system across all 52 trains operating under Phase I. The system enhances existing obstacle-detection technology by identifying thin or light materials such as saree ends, dupattas, bag straps, and belts that could get trapped during door closure. If entrapment occurs, it will trigger an emergency brake and alert the driver instantly. CMRL clarified that this initiative is a preventive safety upgrade, not incident-driven. The feature will also be standard on Phase II trains, reinforcing global safety standards and boosting public confidence in Chennai's metro system.
In a major safety initiative, CMRL has entered into a contract with Faiveley Transport Rail Technologies India Pvt Ltd for the design, supply, installation, testing, and commissioning of an anti-drag passenger door safety system for all 52 trains currently operational under Phase I. The total contract value is estimated at INR 48.33 crore. The new system is designed to complement the existing obstacle-detection mechanism already fitted on metro trains, which can sense larger obstructions during door closure but is limited in its ability to identify thinner materials. Advertisement
According to CMRL, the upgraded safety technology will enable doors to detect light, narrow objects such as saree ends, dupattas, bag straps, and belts that may become trapped when doors close automatically. In the event that such items are caught as the train begins to move, the system will activate an emergency brake and immediately alert the driver through the onboard monitoring console, thereby preventing the train from moving further. This safety measure is particularly significant in a city like Chennai, where a large section of daily commuters comprises women wearing traditional attire.
The metro operator clarified that this initiative was not triggered by any specific incident but rather forms part of its continued focus on adopting global standards in urban rail safety. CMRL also announced that the anti-drag system will be incorporated as a built-in feature for all new rolling stock to be procured for Phase II of the Chennai Metro project, ensuring uniform safety standards across the network. Once implemented, the technology will be thoroughly tested and integrated into existing operations without causing service disruption.
By adopting this cutting-edge anti-drag safety system, CMRL has taken a forward-looking step in strengthening passenger protection and improving operational safety. The initiative reflects the organisation's commitment to maintaining international best practices while adapting to the unique needs of Chennai's commuter base. The ability to detect and respond to entrapment risks in real time will significantly reduce the chances of injuries and operational hazards. As the system is gradually deployed across the network, it will further reinforce public confidence in metro travel, positioning Chennai Metro as one of the most safety-conscious mass transit systems in India.
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