Kolkata Metro Implements Restricted Tests for CBTC System Amid Installation Challenges
Kolkata Metro is facing a challenging period as it continues its efforts to upgrade its East-West Metro (E-W Metro) corridor with the installation of a Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) system. The two sections of the corridor, currently running between Sealdah and Sector V (9.2 km) and Esplanade and Howrah Maidan (4.8 km), are set to undergo crucial upgrades, but these changes come with complications regarding testing and potential service disruptions.
As part of the project, Metro Railway will temporarily suspend the usual CBTC testing in favour of “interlocking tests with restricted manual mode” between 11 PM on February 12 and 5 AM on February 17. These tests are essential for the installation of the CBTC system, which requires software upgrades for the entire 16.6-kilometre corridor. However, according to officials, these tests will need to be repeated when additional time slots are available, with the aim to ensure the system is integrated correctly. The installation of the CBTC system is a significant undertaking that will improve train control systems for safer and more efficient services on the E-W Metro corridor. But with long periods of service suspension required for these upgrades, balancing commuter needs with project deadlines has become a delicate task for the authorities. A Metro Railway spokesperson expressed the challenge of balancing service and construction, stating, “We will announce if and when services are suspended. This is serious business. Passengers cannot be inconvenienced. But the project has to be completed. We have to strike the right balance between the two necessities.” The spokesperson’s words underline the importance of maintaining a steady flow of commuters while also progressing with a critical infrastructure project.
The two operational stretches of the E-W Metro corridor are heavily used by commuters, with nearly 100,000 passengers relying on the services every day. The busy nature of the route means that service disruptions are particularly problematic, as they can cause significant delays and inconvenience to those who depend on the metro for their daily commutes. In addition to the planned tests, the Metro Railway has communicated that CBTC installation in the new section will likely occur after the commissioning. To facilitate these upgrades, Metro Railway officials have suggested suspending services during weekends, which would allow engineers to complete the necessary work more efficiently. However, engineers argue that longer suspensions may be necessary to fully integrate the CBTC system.
This situation has raised concerns for various stakeholders. Notably, the Publishers and Booksellers Guild has requested that services not be disrupted during the Kolkata Book Fair, which is scheduled to run from January 28 to February 9. As the fair draws thousands of visitors, any disruption to the metro services could impact both local and out-of-town attendees. Metro authorities have acknowledged these concerns and emphasised that they will make every effort to minimise passenger inconvenience. By conducting tests at night, when the metro sees fewer passengers, they hope to mitigate the impact on daily commuters. However, the need for the project’s completion remains urgent, and engineers are working tirelessly to strike a compromise. Ultimately, the metro authorities aim to complete the necessary upgrades without compromising the efficiency and safety of their services. As the tests continue, Kolkata’s commuters will be closely watching the balance between technological progress and the need for uninterrupted service.
