The first operational section of Chennai Metro’s Phase II has opened to passengers, bringing Hitachi Rail’s signalling technology into service. The Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) system is designed to support fully driverless trains across the network being developed by Chennai Metro Rail (CMRL).

The 15 km Poonamallee-Vadapalani corridor was inaugurated on 11 October by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alongside Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay. The route has 11 elevated stations and is intended to improve connectivity between Chennai’s western suburbs and the city centre.

Hitachi Rail was awarded a Rs. 16.2 bn contract in 2023 for the 119 km Phase II network. The agreement covers the design, manufacture, supply, installation, testing and commissioning of signalling, train control and video management systems, making it one of India’s largest metro signalling contracts.

The CBTC technology automatically manages train movement, including acceleration and braking, while calculating suitable operating speeds in real time. It is intended to allow services to run at intervals of up to 90 seconds. When combined with Automatic Train Operation, the system can support Grade of Automation 4, under which trains operate without drivers.

Hitachi Rail’s India rail control division said the technology would help improve safety, passenger capacity and service reliability while reducing maintenance requirements. The company also linked the system to improved operational efficiency as Chennai expands its metro network. The corridor includes a 3.7 km double-decker structure and is expected to ease daily commutes, reduce travel times and strengthen sustainable transport connections across the city.