Introduction to First Driverless Metro Train in India

The first driverless metro train set in Bengaluru is set to undergo safety tests before being commissioned.

Testing of the Driverless Metro Train 

The first set of driverless train coaches are part of the Communication-based Train Control (CBTC) system for 18.8 KM yellow line, which is under construction. The yellow line, which connects RV Road and Bommasandra, is the first driverless train route in Bengaluru Metro.

• Types of Tests: Before being operational, the system has to undergo at least 37 tests on the mainline for four months and signalling tests for at least 45 days. 
• Authorities: The Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) and the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) will be involved in statutory safety tests.

Yellow Line of Bengaluru Metro

• Route: The route connects south of Bengaluru to the city’s tech hub, which hosts offices of companies such as TCS, Infosys, Wipro etc.
  • The metro route has 16 elevated stations, with connections to Green Line of the Bengaluru metro at the RV Road station and with the Pink Line at Jayadeva Hospital station.
• Benefits: The opening of the yellow line is expected to decongest the traffic on Hosur Road, which connects border areas of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. 

The Driverless Metro Trains

The manufacturing of the trains has been carried out by CRRC Nanjing Puzhen Co Ltd, along with their domestic partners Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd. as part of the Make In India Initiative.

• Special Features: 

  • The train consists of features such as Unattended Train Operations (UTO), Track Monitoring System, Hot Axle Detection System, Obstacle and Derailment Detection System etc. 
    • Hot Axle Detection: The train is equipped with a hot axle detection system that detects overheating in the bearings of the trains.
    • The collected data is then transmitted to the Operations Control Centre (OCC) via an onboard antenna and other communication system for further actions.
    • Real-time Location: The real-time dynamic route map will provide information on doors opening or closing and, on the arrival/departure of the train.
    • Cameras: Cameras will be placed on both sides of the cars so that train operators can view the passengers boarding and deboarding before train departure.
    • Emergency Egress Device (EED) unit: During emergency, passengers can operate the handle till this device to send a request to the OCC/train operator, who can then let the door unlock.
    • Artificial Intelligence: AI algorithms will be used to collect data from sensors to detect anomalies such as cracks, wear and tear or other issues along the track.
      • For that purpose, cameras will be used to capture visual data and AI-powered systems will analyse it in real-time to detect safety concerns.

• Functioning: 

  • The train system functions using the Communication-based Train Control (CBTC), which is a communication-based system that uses radio communication to transfer timely and accurate train control information.
    • Functions of the train, such as opening and closing of the door, stoppage and movement etc will be carried out by the Operations Control Centre (OCC).
    • OCC will use the CBTC to activate the trains system and carry out an automatic self-check to ensure its technical fitness, before the train starts functioning.
    • The train will have two modes: the “wake up” for functioning and the “sleep mode” at night.

Using AI in Metro Operations

Artificial Intelligence will be used to monitor tracks on the new line for the safety of operations. AI algorithms can analyse data from sensors to detect anomalies such as cracks, wear and tear or other irregularities along the track.

• Track Fare Evasion: Surveillance software that uses artificial intelligence can help in spotting people evading metro fares.
• Ventilation Systems: Artificial intelligence (AI)-based ventilation systems can be used to reduce emissions and improve air quality across metro stations.
• Optimize Operations: AI algorithms can be used to analyse real-time traffic data from sensors, cameras, and GPS devices. 
• Prevent Suicides: AI-powered CCTV cameras have been used to detect warning signs that a commuter will try to commit suicide by jumping in front of the incoming train.
• Train Safety: AI can be used to regularly check anomalies in the train systems. This can prevent accidents and increase train safety.
• Energy Optimization: AI systems have made it possible to optimize energy use and operating efficiency, resulting in reduction in energy costs.

Conclusion

AI-powered metro trains will reduce the turnaround time for train operations while enhancing safety features. However, training programs and skill development initiatives for metro staff is needed for smooth operations.