Kolkata Metro Transitions to Aluminium Third Rail for Enhanced Efficiency

August 31, 2023

Kolkata Metro Railway, a lifeline for the city since 1984, is embracing change by shifting from steel Third Rail to composite Aluminium Third Rail. The upgrade aims to boost efficiency and reduce costs. This transformation aligns Kolkata with renowned metros like London, Moscow, and Berlin.

The project involves gradual replacement across multiple phases, covering key corridors. The shift to Aluminium Third Rail offers multiple advantages: decreased resistive current loss, improved traction voltage, reduced need for substations, accelerated acceleration, lower maintenance costs, and diminished environmental impact. The move is anticipated to save around ₹210 Crores in capital investment for a 35 km corridor. This advancement showcases Kolkata’s commitment to modernize its metro system and enhance its performance.

What is the Kolkata Metro Railway transitioning from and to, and why?

Kolkata Metro is transitioning from steel Third Rail to composite Aluminium Third Rail to enhance efficiency, reduce resistive current loss, and improve traction voltage.

How does this transformation place Kolkata among other metro systems globally?

This shift aligns Kolkata with esteemed metros like London, Moscow, Berlin, Munich, and Istanbul, which have also adopted Aluminium Third Rails for their systems.

What are the key phases of the project, and which sections will be covered initially?

The project involves a phased approach. The initial phase will replace the Third Rail on the section between Dumdum and Shyambazar.

What are the advantages of using composite Aluminium Third Rail over steel Third Rail?

The advantages include reduced resistive current loss, improved traction voltage, lower capital investment, faster acceleration, reduced maintenance, and a positive impact on energy efficiency and carbon footprint.

What capital investment savings are expected due to the transition?

Approximately ₹210 Crores in capital investment could be saved for a 35 km metro corridor by using composite Aluminium Third Rail.

How will the efficiency of train operations improve with this change?

The transition is expected to lead to improved train efficiency through factors like reduced voltage drop, faster acceleration, and streamlined maintenance processes.

What are the potential environmental benefits of adopting Aluminium Third Rail?

The move is estimated to save around 6.7 million units of energy per annum and contribute to a reduction in carbon footprint.

What other impacts can be expected from this transition?

The transition is expected to improve the headway of trains, reduce the need for frequent Third Rail dimension measurements, and eliminate issues like damage due to rusting.

Which sections will be covered in the subsequent phases of the project?

The second phase will cover the Shyambazar to Central and J D Park to Tollygunge sections. The third phase will focus on the Mahanayak Uttam Kumar (Tollygunge) to Kavi Subhash (New Garia) section.

What does this transition signify for Kolkata’s commitment to its metro system’s advancement?

The transition underscores Kolkata’s dedication to modernizing its metro system, improving performance, and aligning with international best practices.

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