New Delhi, 12 April (H.S.):

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has embarked on a transformative mid-life refurbishment of Blue Line trains to elevate passenger safety, comfort, and journey quality. Aging fleets are being infused with cutting-edge technology and premium amenities, ensuring alignment with contemporary standards.

In a Sunday update, DMRC revealed that 70 trains on the Red and Blue Lines will undergo phased upgrades. The first phase revamped 12 trains, the second 18, with more imminent. The third phase targets 22 Blue Line trains by November 2027.

These trains, inducted between 2002 and 2007 after 19-24 years of service, now boast modernized systems. DMRC Managing Director Dr. Vikas Kumar inspected the third phase's inaugural refurbished train on Sunday, now in passenger service—bringing the total to 31 upgraded units.

Refurbishments feature revamped interiors and technical overhauls: fresh repainting of coaches and driver cabins, repaired components, and enhanced electrical panels for superior efficiency and reliability.

For passengers, upgrades include IP-based Passenger Announcement and Information Systems (PA-PIS), CCTV cameras, and LCD dynamic route maps delivering real-time route, timing, and station updates, plus emergency communication between riders and operators.

Safety enhancements encompass smoke and temperature-detecting sensors in every coach, alongside replaced legacy electrical gear with state-of-the-art units. Commuter conveniences now feature mobile and laptop charging points across all coaches.

DMRC asserts this initiative rejuvenates veteran trains to match new ones, promising secure, dependable, and deluxe travel experiences.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar