Delhi Metro Rail Corp to start induction of 68 eight-coach trains soon

NEW DELHI: Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has decided to commence inducting 68 eight-coach trains on its network. It is expected that the overcrowding in the Delhi Metro trains could get relaxed by the end of 2012 with the help of this move.

The eight-coach trains is expected to be the first of its kind in India. It will be operational on the Noida/Vaishali and Gurgaon corridors, which are considered as the most crowded lines on the network. Delhi Metro covers 185 km of the national capital on its map.

It is believed that overcrowding is a major issue with the commuters on the Delhi Metro. It now has a ridership of more than 20 lakh and the new age transport system. It has been taking many initiatives with the aim to reduce overcrowding with the help of extra coaches.

When the train gets converted into an eight-coach train, it will be able to accommodate more than 2,400 people in every trip. Presently, a six-coach train has the potential for accommodating 1,800 passengers.

Reports suggest that Delhi Metro has given orders for 212 cars from Mitsubishi-Rotem-Mitsubishi Electric and German train maker Bombardier. The delivery may commence in September next year and end in May 2013.

Mitsubishi-Rotem-Mitsubishi will be giving 136 coaches and Bombardier will be supplying 76 cars.