Kolkata Metro Upgrades to Aluminium Third Rail for Enhanced Efficiency
The Kolkata Metro has successfully transitioned from a steel to an aluminium third rail at the Girish Park siding on the Dakshineswar-New Garia corridor, marking a significant upgrade in its infrastructure. This essential component, responsible for powering the Metro trains, is expected to improve energy efficiency substantially with the new aluminium rail system.
In an official announcement made on Sunday, Metro Railway confirmed that the replacement of a 200-meter segment of the third rail was completed on Saturday night. This upgrade aims to minimize system voltage drops and reduce energy loss, resulting in faster train acceleration and a smoother ride for passengers.
The shift to aluminium is a strategic move for the Kolkata Metro, as it not only enhances operational efficiency but also supports the system’s long-term sustainability goals. The new rail is designed to facilitate quicker train speeds and improve overall service reliability, making daily commutes more efficient for the thousands of passengers who rely on the Metro system.
Metro Railway has ambitious plans for the future, aiming to fully replace the third rails across its network within the next two years. The initiative is projected to achieve an impressive 84% reduction in energy loss, translating to significant cost savings of approximately Rs one crore per year for each kilometer of track. This not only benefits the Metro operations but also contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing the energy footprint of the public transport system.
As Kolkata continues to modernize its public transport infrastructure, the upgrade to aluminium third rails is a crucial step toward a more efficient and eco-friendly Metro system. Stay tuned for further updates on the Kolkata Metro’s developments and enhancements that aim to improve the travel experience for all commuters.
Reference :
TOI, Link to Article