Swish trains in store for third phase corridors

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) will introduce new-look trains for phase 3 corridors. Subhendu Ray reports. Train of thought

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) will introduce new-look trains for phase 3 corridors.

HT Image

And if DMRC officials are to be believed, these trains will be 'smarter' and more commuter-friendly than the existing ones.

"We have decided to bring in a major facelift to the interiors and exteriors of the new trains. The new trains will have many new features which will be aesthetically pleasing and will provide greater comfort to commuters. These features will be mentioned in the tender documents," HS Anand, director, Rolling Stock, DMRC, told HT.

The trains' interior lighting system, display panels and dynamic route maps will see a major rehaul. As per plans, there will be light-emitting diode (LED) based display panels, LED-based lighting, and liquid crystal display (LCD) based dynamic route map in the trains.

"The display panels inside the trains will be LED-based.

Here graphics, public information messages and advertisements can also be aired. Currently, only the station names or messages are displayed here," said Anand.

The lighting inside the new trains will be LED-based instead of existing system of fluorescent lights. This will make for a soothing ride for the commuters, Anand added.

"Keeping the commuters' convenience in mind, we have also decided to install LCD-based detailed dynamic route maps on every door of the new trains so that people standing at any corner of the train can view the map from any angle," said Anand.

The route maps in the existing trains are LED-based and a number of commuters find it difficult to view them in a crowded train.

Besides, the look of the front cab of the trains will be changed too. Now, glass will be used for the front emergency door to give it a better look.

In a bid to accommodate more commuters and to provide more comfort to those who do not get a seat, the DMRC has also decided to increase the number of grab rails and handles. Broader gangways between the coaches will also be provided for their convenience, sources said.