Alstom emerges as the only bidder for Delhi Metro signal upgradation

Alstom Transport India has emerged as the only bidder for the supply and commissioning of the train control and signalling system for Delhi Metro’s red line (line-1). The system also contains virtual signal implementation for the red line, Line-1 of Delhi metro’s red line that extends to 34.4 km from Shaheed Sthal to Rithala with 29 stations. The invitation of bids for the work was started in March 2021 by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) with a total capital of Rs 90.27 crore and time for completion as 15 months. The reveal of Alstom as the only bidder for the contract came when the technical bids were opened. Currently, Delhi Metro's Red Line is decked with Urbalis 200 train control and signalling solution by Alstom. The work includes design, manufacture, supply, installation, configuration/customisation, testing and commissioning of train control and signalling system for short looping train movement along with virtual signal implementation. They also have trains conversion from six cars to eight-car trains along with head stopping at all platforms of the Line-1 and combining the train control and signalling system with a third-party ATS system. The process of signalling upgradation was launched in 2019 by the Delhi Metro on its Red, Yellow and Blue Lines to identify glitches and make the required changes to aid the affected trains run at 33-37 km per hour. This will render stable train services thereby preventing overcrowding. The bid of Rs 86.21 crore by Siemens won the contract for upgradation of Blue Line in June 2020. The contract for Yellow Line upgradation along with the contract for the bid raised in March by the only bidder Alstom is also still pending. Image Source Also read: DMRCL opens tender for construction of four stations, twin tunnels