Magenta line to usher in new era for Delhi Metro

New Delhi: Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) will head into a new era of technology for public transport, with the introduction of Communication Based Train Control System (CBTC) at its Magenta Line, the first section of which will be flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 25.

DMRC officials said that starting with the Kalkaji Mandir–Botanical Garden section of Magenta Line, CBTC will usher in unattended train operations (UTO), i.e. driverless trains, which will run at a frequency of 90 to 100 seconds. The section is 12.64 km long and has nine stations.

The Magenta Line will directly connect south Delhi's Kalkaji to Noida and will have many firsts to its credit

"For the first time in India, trains will run unattended. Platform screen doors (PSDs) are being used here for the first time," DMRC chief spokesperson Anuj Dayal stated on Friday.

PSDs are glass screens installed near the edge of platforms that open only when a train arrives and shut after it departs. They have installed to enhance commuter safety.

Initially, trains will operate with a frequency of five minutes and 14 seconds on this section, the DMRC said.

The new stations have been tastefully decorated, reflecting themes of nature, Yoga, and cultural landmarks.

After the new section opens, commuters will be able to travel from Kalkaji Mandir Metro station from Botanical Garden in 19 minutes.

Once the other section of Magenta Line between Kalkaji Mandir and Janak Puri West becomes operational, travel time between Noida and Gurugram will come down to around 50 minutes, with another interchange at Hauz Khas Metro station.

Presently, the journey from HUDA City Centre in Gurugram to Botanical Garden in Noida takes about 90 minutes, with an interchange at the busy Rajiv Chowk Metro station.

Travel between Blue and Violet lines of the Metro takes 52 minutes, with an interchange at Mandi House station.

Dayal added that the Magenta line would also be economical for commuters.

"The 28-km stretch between Kalkaji Mandir and Botanical Garden costs Rs 50. Now, with direct connectivity, the ride has been reduced to 12 km, costing Rs 30," he said.

Authorities of Delhi Metro said that 10 trains would initially operate on the new line, while two would be kept on reserve.