Delhi Metro Airport Express Line to zip at 120 kmph now

New Delhi: Delhi metro rail corporation (DMRC) is going to operate the airport express line at a massive speed of 120 Kmph from September 17, said an official statement on Saturday. The speed of India’s fastest Metro corridor has been increased from 90 Kmph to 120 Kmph. This will help commuters save more than 3 minutes of travel time as the metro will take just 15 minutes and 30 seconds between New Delhi and Terminal–3 of the IGI airport. The travel time was a little more than 18 minutes earlier.

Delhi Metro Airport Line: 19 minutes to get from Dwarka to IGI airport

With the addition of this section, it will take just 19 minutes between New Delhi and Dwarka Sector- 21 station reducing the time by three minutes.

"It has been made possible by meticulous planning and time-bound implementation by DMRC’s engineers together with government agencies and domain experts," said DMRC.

To enable high-speed train operations, more than 2,60,000 tension clamps were replaced along the entire corridor. Most of this work occurred during the night from 11 pm to 7 am to minimise disruptions. Each phase involved deploying over 100 workers at a time.

DMRC completed the project way ahead of schedule

Before undertaking this massive task, the effectiveness of these clamps was assessed on a one-kilometer trial track. Advanced instruments were used to measure vibrations and stress on the rails during this trial. The initial timeline for completion was 18 months, but DMRC managed to finish it in just six months, said DMRC.

They utilised an advanced system with 3D accelerometers and strain sensors to continuously monitor vibrations and strains on the tracks at various speeds, ranging from 90 kmph to 120 kmph. DMRC officials invested substantial effort in analysing the data collected at different speeds to better understand the system's behavior.

Ensuring the safety of the signaling infrastructure was crucial at these high speeds. They meticulously verified all software and safety certifications for the main system and its subsystems. Additionally, they extensively tested the interface between the signaling system, rolling stock, and passenger information systems.

Furthermore, they checked the coordination of Passenger Screen Doors (PSDs) with the train's movement. The comprehensive testing of all signaling equipment was conducted systematically, involving the track, rolling stock, and traction, over two months.

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