Alstom bags ₹90 crore contract to upgrade signalling system of Delhi Metro Line 1

New Delhi, India (Urban Transport News): French multinational firm Alstom Transport have received work order worth Rs 90.27 crores from Delhi Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (DMRC) for revamping and introducing virtual signals for 34.4-km Line-1 (Rithala - Shaheed Sthal) of Delhi Metro Rail Network on July 5, 2021.

The scope of 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, Six car to Eight car trains conversion along with Head stopping at all platforms of Line-1 and Integration of Train Control and Signalling system of Line-1 (with Third Party ATS system) of Delhi Metro Rail project.

Tender for the above work was floated in March this year and technical bids were opened on June 22, 2021. Alstom Transport was the only bidder.

Alstom has to complete the work in 15 months. The installation, testing and commissioning of virtual signals will be carried out during non-revenue hours so that the operations of passenger trains could not be affecred.

The virtual signalling system is an intermediate entry and exit location displayed on the signalling monitor at the control centre. The system can be used to divide the routes between any two fixed signals. However, since it is not a physical signal, it only controls trains having automatic train protection. The concept of virtual signalling aims to keep the metro trains operating at the normal speed of 35-37 kmph. The virtual signalling system will also ensure that the trains reach the nearest interlocking section at a faster pace. 

Signalling upgradation work contract worth Rs 86.21 crores for Delhi Metro's Line 3 (Blue Line) was awarded to Siemens in June 2020. Further, the contract for upgradation of signalling system of Line-2 (Yellow Line) has already been floated where Alstom is only bidder. The letter of award not yet issued.