BEML to supply and maintain 210 metro cars for Chennai Metro Rail

Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has awarded a contract, worth approximately Rs36.58bn ($466.53m) including taxes and duties, to India-based Bharat Earth Movers (BEML) for the supply of metro cars.

The contract encompasses the design, manufacture, supply, testing, commissioning, and training for standard gauge metro rolling stock (electrical multiple units) and depot machinery and plant.

Additionally, the order includes a comprehensive 15-year maintenance contract.

BEML will supply 210 metro cars, which will be arranged into 70 three-car trainsets.

The three trainsets are planned to be primarily operated in Unattended Train Operation (UTO) mode (GoA4), which is said to be the most advanced automation level for metro systems.

Funded by the Japan International cooperation Agency (JICA), the trains will enhance Chennai’s urban transport system and meet the highest international benchmarks for safety, comfort, and operational effectiveness.