Chennai Metro conducts trials

Trial runs for the Chennai Metro Rail Ltd (CMRL) have commenced on a portion of the rail-based rapid transport system coming up in the city. A full train of four coaches and two cabins conducted a 5.7 km run twice on a section of the elevated track between Koyambedu, a station and depot, and Ashok Pillar, one of the stations. The train can carry 1,276 commuters at full capacity. This is viewed as a landmark development since all systems and processes are now up to operational stage as a prelude to commercial launch. Over the next four-six months, the trains will be tested everyday.