CHENNAI: With an eye on trial runs in September, Chennai Metro Rail Ltd (CMRL) has started installing critical systems like signals in the section beneath Anna Salai. Laying of tracks and civil work at the stations are nearing completion. The nearly 10km stretch from Washermenpet to AG-DMS via Central Metro is expected to be operational by end of 2018 or early 2019."We have completed installation of signal systems between Washermenpet and Central Metro," a CMRL official said. "Work is now progressing from Central to AG-DMS. We have yet to fix a date in September for trial runs."The Washermenpet to AG-DMS line (10km) is the last remaining portion to be completed in the 45km phase-1. The stretch from Washermenpet to AG-DMS has eight underground stations including the transit hub at Central Metro, where the line will operate in the third deck.Once the line is operational, commuters from Central Metro can reach airport in 45 minutes via Anna Salai instead to taking the roundabout route via Poonamallee High Road and Koyambedu.Signalling systems are crucial in automating the operation of the metro rail network. These systems are required in the operation of trains and the platform screen doors at the stations.The 3km stretch between Washermenpet and Central Metro, though ready much earlier, could not be opened for operations as CMRL had not completed the rest of the line from Central to AG-DMS, oficials said. A portion of the line now under construction under Anna Salai was part of a stretch where work stalled for more than a year after Russian contractor Mosmetrostroy cited financial problems and abandoned work.

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