Technical glitch disrupts metro phase 2 trial run

Chennai: The first trial run of Chennai Metro Rail Limited's (CMRL) phase 2 was disrupted by a technical snag. The train was set to run on a 2-km stretch between Poonamallee and Mullaithottam, but an electrical fault caused wires to short-circuit over a 500-metre section near Mullaithottam. CMRL officials worked late into the night to fix the issue, deploying Road-cum-Rail Vehicles (RRVs) to pinpoint the exact location of the fault. The test run is now expected to be conducted again on Friday.
During the initial trial, the train will operate at 40kmph. If successful, further tests will be held to check key systems before passenger operations begin. These include signalling and telecom, which ensure communication between trains and control rooms to prevent collisions; vibration and noise levels, to confirm the ride is smooth and quiet for passengers; overhead equipment, which supplies electricity to the trains through wires above the tracks; and speed tests, ensuring the metro can safely reach its full operational speed of 90kmph.
Meanwhile, CMRL has completed launching all 624 U-girders for the Phase 2 viaduct under Package C4-ECV-02, connecting Light House to Poonamallee Bypass. The package also involved placing two large steel Open Web Girders over the Tambaram–Maduravoyal Bypass.
Hindustan Construction Company-KEC International JV was awarded the 1,007 crore contract in May 2021, with a 36-month timeline. The 7.9 km stretch from Poonamallee Bypass to Porur includes a viaduct and nine metro stations: Chennai Bypass Crossing, Ramachandra Hospital, Iyyappanthangal Bus Depot, Katupakkam, Kumananchavadi, Karayanchavadi, Mullai Thottam, Poonamallee Bus Terminus, and Poonamallee Bypass.