After a string of technical snags being reported, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has promised to bring in a host of measures to improve services.
DMRC managing director Mangu Singh, who reviewed operational issues on the metro network, has directed the implementation of measures to counter problems related to the automatic train control (ATC), track circuit (TC), and automatic train supervision (ATS).
“Our aim is to minimise problems and avoid inconvenience to commuters. But, some problems do arise as the network expands. We are trying to do everything to minimise these,” said a metro official.
The ATC onboard power cards have failed to function on several occasions, causing disruptions. To address this issue, the metro has identified the module failing the card. Also, spare modules are being procured.
Preventive move
The ATC is a train protection system that involves a speed control mechanism. “This module will be replaced on all cards as a preventive measure. There have been cases of disruptions because of the failure of onboard hardware (Train Interface Computer cards). The TIC cards, which have high intermittent failures, will be replaced in six months,” the official added. Problems with the track circuit — electrical devices used to detect absence of trains on tracks, inform signallers and control signals — have been plaguing the Blue Line.
Better track circuit
“High reliability relay boards are being provided for greater efficiency. The relay boards at Noida City Centre, Vaishali and Dwarka Sector 21 (Blue Line) have already been replaced, while the same is being done at Dwarka and Yamuna Bank stations,” the DMRC said.
Also, copper made S-bond cables are being replaced with steel cables in all theft-prone areas on the network.
Automatic supervision
Some disruptions have also been reported because of the failure of the central ATS for the Blue Line. As a result, train IDs have been lost, leading to delays. To correct this, a backup central ATS on standby mode is being planned.
Fixing issues
Hardware and software-related problems, meanwhile, have been fixed in over 175 trains and maintenance audits have been conducted in another 56 trains. The traction (overhead electrification) has also been replaced across the network.