Kolkata Metro Launches First Battery Backup on Blue Line
RAILWAYS & METRO RAIL

Kolkata Metro Launches First Battery Backup on Blue Line

Kolkata Metro has launched India's first battery backup system on the Blue Line to provide auxiliary power during supply interruptions. The system is intended to keep essential services such as signalling, station lighting and ventilation operational when the main power source is unavailable. The authority described the installation as a significant step towards improving network resilience. Officials said the initiative reflects ongoing efforts to modernise the network and to bolster daily commuter services.

The battery backup system will allow trains to complete journeys safely and support critical station functions until normal supply is restored. Engineers designed the system to switch seamlessly to stored electrical energy and to protect sensitive equipment from abrupt outages. The deployment focuses on passenger safety and continuity of services rather than on long duration off grid operation. The design allows rapid switchover and prioritises essential loads to maintain operational stability.

Operational benefits are expected to include reduced service cancellations, fewer unscheduled delays and improved response during emergency scenarios. The backup capability is likely to lessen reliance on diesel generators and to lower disruption related costs over time. Maintenance teams will monitor performance to refine protocols and to ensure reliability. The initiative may also deliver environmental advantages by reducing emergency fuel use and supporting broader sustainability objectives.

The launch may set a precedent for other urban rail networks seeking resilient power solutions and modernisation of critical infrastructure. Observers noted that such initiatives align with broader efforts to enhance commuter confidence and to strengthen urban mobility systems. Kolkata Metro is positioned to evaluate lessons from the Blue Line deployment for possible future rollouts. Officials will gather operational data to guide decisions on scaling the system to additional corridors.

Kolkata Metro has launched India's first battery backup system on the Blue Line to provide auxiliary power during supply interruptions. The system is intended to keep essential services such as signalling, station lighting and ventilation operational when the main power source is unavailable. The authority described the installation as a significant step towards improving network resilience. Officials said the initiative reflects ongoing efforts to modernise the network and to bolster daily commuter services. The battery backup system will allow trains to complete journeys safely and support critical station functions until normal supply is restored. Engineers designed the system to switch seamlessly to stored electrical energy and to protect sensitive equipment from abrupt outages. The deployment focuses on passenger safety and continuity of services rather than on long duration off grid operation. The design allows rapid switchover and prioritises essential loads to maintain operational stability. Operational benefits are expected to include reduced service cancellations, fewer unscheduled delays and improved response during emergency scenarios. The backup capability is likely to lessen reliance on diesel generators and to lower disruption related costs over time. Maintenance teams will monitor performance to refine protocols and to ensure reliability. The initiative may also deliver environmental advantages by reducing emergency fuel use and supporting broader sustainability objectives. The launch may set a precedent for other urban rail networks seeking resilient power solutions and modernisation of critical infrastructure. Observers noted that such initiatives align with broader efforts to enhance commuter confidence and to strengthen urban mobility systems. Kolkata Metro is positioned to evaluate lessons from the Blue Line deployment for possible future rollouts. Officials will gather operational data to guide decisions on scaling the system to additional corridors.

Next Story
Real Estate

Integrated Waterproofing Strategies

Waterproofing buildings used to be an annual pre-monsoon affair but the evolution of real-estate development has changed that approach. In new developments, developers are weaving waterproofing solutions into both the design and construction phases, an approach that Nikhil Madan, Managing Director, Mahima Group, says, “is all about ensuring lasting durability [of the building] and keeping lifecycle risks including water seepage and extensive maintenance to a minimum.”Watertight by designAluminium formwork systems aren’t commonly thought of as a waterproofing tool but at the Mahima Group,..

Next Story
Infrastructure Urban

GROHE Showcases Water-Led Design At Milan

GROHE unveiled its GROHE SPA Aqua Sanctuary at Milan Design Week 2026, transforming Piccolo Teatro Studio Melato into an immersive showcase of water, design and wellbeing. Built on the philosophy of ‘Wellbeing Through Water’, the installation reimagined bathrooms as holistic spaces for relaxation, rejuvenation and self-care.The Aqua Sanctuary was presented through three interconnected sanctums. The first showcased the 3D-printed GROHE SPA AquaTree shower and faucet, highlighting bespoke innovation and biophilic design. The second featured the Atrio Private Collection and GROHE SPA x Buster..

Next Story
Infrastructure Transport

Rahee Group Expands Rail Manufacturing Capacity

Rahee Group has outlined a multi-year investment roadmap to expand its operational footprint and strengthen manufacturing capabilities for India’s growing railway and urban transit sector. The Group is expanding in Odisha with a new Track Component Casting Unit, for which the groundbreaking ceremony was held on 8 April 2026 in the presence of Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.The Group’s flagship EPC arm, Rahee Infratech Ltd, continues to focus on complex rail infrastructure projects, including track systems, bridges, viaducts and ballastless infrastructure. Its wholly owned subsidi..

Advertisement

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world.

STAY CONNECTED

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement