Chennai Metro Update: CMRL Plans To Introduce 'Anti-Drag' Door System To Ramp Up Passenger Safety

In an attempt to ramp up passenger safety, the Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has announced plans to install anti-drag features on metro doors across all 52 metro services running in Phase I. 

According to The Indian Express, the CMRL has finalised a Rs 48.33-crore contract with Faiveley Transport Rail Technologies India Private Limited to equip all saloon doors of its 52 Phase-1 trains with anti-drag systems. The project includes design, supply, installation, testing, and commissioning.

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Chennai Metro Update: How Will These Doors Enhance Safety?

According to CMRL, the upgraded safety system enables train doors to detect even light or slender objects, such as saree ends, dupattas, bag straps, or belts, that might get trapped as the doors close automatically. If any of these items become caught when the train begins to move, the system will automatically engage the emergency brakes and alert the driver through the onboard monitoring console, ensuring the train stops immediately. This enhancement is particularly vital in Chennai, where many daily commuters are women who often travel in traditional attire.

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The metro official added that the safety measure was not triggered by any stray incident but rather forms part of the continuous effort to adopt global standards in urban rail safety. Additionally, CMRL 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 introducing this state-of-the-art anti-drag safety system, CMRL has made a progressive move toward enhancing passenger safety and ensuring smoother operations. The initiative highlights the organisation’s dedication to upholding global safety standards while tailoring its approach to meet the specific needs of Chennai’s commuters.