Soon, buttons in Metros to talk to drivers in case of emergencies

Passengers of Kolkata Metro Rail are likely to get an option to talk to the driver while travelling if he or she faces any problem inside the compartment.

Kolkata Metro Rail is all set to introduce two new rakes equipped with various new facilities before Durga Puja.

Special switches will be found in these new rakes, pressing which, the drivers can be contacted, said a Metro railway source said.

These new rakes were built by Indian engineers and using Indian technology.

"There will be some switches inside the rakes pressing which, many facilities can be chosen. One of the switches will help the passengers to connect with the driver. Ailing passengers or passengers in danger while travelling can contact the driver for help. The drivers on the other hand can inform the matter to the rail officers of the next station," a Metro source added.

These new rakes can resist heat and the passengers will get more cooling effect inside the rakes. "The running rakes sometime generate heat inside the tunnels. But these new rakes are heat resistance and these will not generate heat," the source said.

There will be broader vestibules in these new rakes. Passengers usually cross from one rake to other through these vestibules which are presently narrow.

The new rakes that are set to arrive will have eight passenger communication displays in each rake. Presently, only three such displays are available. It was learnt that these rakes will give jerk-free rides to commuters.

An advanced ethernet-based train control and management system will be another feature in the new rakes. The motorman will be able to control everything from his cabin. He will be able to resolve any trouble concerning doors or other parts of coaches without getting off which in turn will save time.