Chennai Metro Rail has recently commenced the installation of a ballasted test track within the Poonamallee depot as part of the ongoing phase II project.
Notably, this marks the first instance of a ballast track, characterised by small crushed stones between the rails, being used within the Chennai Metro Rail system.
Previously, in both the Phase I and Phase I extension networks, the authorities exclusively utilised ballastless tracks.
It’s important to highlight that even within the extensive 116-kilometre network of the phase II project, ballastless tracks will be the norm, except for the Poonamallee depot where the ballasted track is being implemented.
“At the planning stage, we opted for ballast tracks in the depot alone because it reduces the initial expenditure and allows for quicker installation,” explained a Chennai Metro Rail Ltd (CMRL) official.
The depot, a crucial element of a metro rail project, serves as the hub for stabling lines, repair facilities, and inspection lines. It is the first component to be completed in such projects, as it provides a place for trains to be stationed and undergo maintenance and repairs.
This depot is being constructed at a cost of Rs 225 crore and will primarily support the maintenance of trains operating between Poonamallee and Light House (corridor 4).
According to officials from the Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL), work on the track at the Poonamallee depot began a few weeks ago, with the top priority being the completion of the test track, reports The Hindu.
The 820-metre test track is expected to be ready within six months, along with a stabling line and an inspection line, both of which must be completed promptly. This is essential because the first driverless train for the phase II project is scheduled to arrive at the depot by August next year for testing within this facility.
In total, there will be 24 tracks at this depot, including stabling lines, inspection lines, and others. Of these, 13 lines will have ballasted tracks within the depot, while the remaining tracks will be ballastless and located outside the depot, according to the officials.
Phase II project is being developed at an estimated cost of Rs 61,843 crore.