Chennai Metro to install anti-drag passenger door feature on 52 trains – Here’s how it will enhance safety

Chennai Metro

To enhance passenger safety during train operations, Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has announced to install anti-drag features on all 52 trains operating under Phase-1.

According to a report by The Indian Express, CMRL has signed a contract for the “Design, Supply, Installation, Testing, and Commissioning of Anti-Drag Feature in all saloon doors of 52 Phase-1 trains” at a total cost of Rs 48.33 crore (including GST).

“The contract is to design, supply, installation, testing and commissioning of Anti Drag Passenger Door Safety System in all the saloon doors of CMRL Phase-1 trains, as part of CMRL’s ongoing commitment to enhance passenger safety and service excellence by introducing an upgraded door safety mechanism across all the trains operating on the Blue and Green lines of Phase-1,” a statement by CMRL was quoted by the newspaper as saying.

At present, CMRL metro trains are equipped with automatic sliding doors featuring an obstacle detection system that senses objects blocking the doors as they close at stations. The upgraded safety system, however, will take this a step further by detecting even thinner items—such as sarees, bag straps, or belts—that could get caught between the doors while passengers board or alight.

As per the report, the system can detect any “pull” or “drag” force. If any such item is pulled along as the train starts moving, the system will automatically activate the emergency brake and instantly alert the train operator via the driver’s console for prompt action.

“While Chennai Metro Rail has reported zero accidents due to door entrapment, this upgrade is a proactive and enhanced safety measure aimed at strengthening passenger protection, particularly for women commuters, and ensuring world-class safety standards across the system. This Anti-Drag Feature will also be incorporated as a standard provision in all trains being procured under Phase 2 of the Chennai Metro Rail Project,” CMRL said in a statement.