12 February,2014 07:43 PM IST | | A Correspondent
Six years after work commenced, Mumbaikars will soon be able to use the Mumbai Metro after it successfully conducted the last set of trial runs
The Mumbai Metro project is one step closer to its opening, wit the Mumbai Metro One Private Limited (MMOPL) successfully completing the Research Design and Standard Organisation (RDSO) trial at maximum speed of 90 kmph.
MMOPL successfully completed the RDSO oscillation and emergency braking distance (EBD) trials in record time of 11 days, much ahead of the RDSO scheduled time of 22 days. This also means that the 11.07 Km Versova-Andheri-Ghatkopar (VAG) metro line moves a step closer to being commissioned.
It should be noted that RDSO is an important statutory technical body under the provision of Metro Act which certifies Metro rail system for safety based on international standards. The trials were the last tests conducted by a team of ten RDSO members.
The RDSO trials started on the VAG Corridor at January 31, 2014 and was scheduled till February 22, 2014. Sources from MMRDA told this newspaper that the team of RDSO were satisfied with the trials and therefore completed it in record time of 11 days.
Post these tests RDSO will submit its final report to the Commissioner for Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) for its final safety certification.
Oscillation trial is conducted to test the track-worthiness of a new or modified design of rolling stock.The purpose is to test the dynamic behaviour of the rolling stock in different conditions with regard to safety, stability and quality rides. Similarly, EBD trials are aimed at testing the braking potentialThe trials were conducted on both the up and down tracks using their expertise and equipments like Oscillation testing setup.
MMOPL has also submitted adequate details like design calculations, type test reports of couplers and brake system certifying their suitability for use in the worst operating conditions, which should also include failure of ATP (Automatic Train Protection) on basis of the internal trials conducted.
What MMOPL has to say?
Reliance Infrastructure-promoted MMOPL said, "We are proud that the statutory body was immensely satisfied and finished the trials in record time. The team has worked very hard in providing international quality standards and facilities"
