Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) hosted the inaugural meeting of the “Rolling Stock Working Group” under I-Metro on May 16–17, 2025. Supported by MoHUA, the event integrated metro systems from across India to discuss best practices, innovation, AI, and localization for modernizing and harmonizing metro rolling stock operations.
Introduction:
CMRL, in partnership with the Indian Metro Rail Organisations Society (I-Metro) and supported by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), successfully conducted the first-ever “Rolling Stock Working Group” meeting. The event was held at the MetroS premises, CMRL’s headquarters in Chennai.
As the designated leader of the Rolling Stock Working Group, CMRL welcomed senior representatives and technical experts from India’s leading metro systems to discuss critical aspects of metro rolling stock design, maintenance, and innovation.
Leadership Presence and Stakeholder Participation:
The two-day event witnessed Shri M.A. Siddique, I.A.S., Managing Director of CMRL, and other senior officials including Shri Manoj Goyal (Director – Systems & Operations), Shri A.R. Rajendran (Chief General Manager and Rolling Stock Working Group Leader), Shri Gopinath Mallya (Chief Advisor – O&M), and Shri S. Ramasubbu (Advisor – O&RS).
Metro rail agencies across India took part, including:
- Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC)
- Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL)
- Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL)
- Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC)
- Kolkata Metro Rail Corporation Limited (KMRCL)
- Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation (Maha Metro)
- Jaipur Metro Rail Corporation (JMRC)
- Gujarat Metro Rail Corporation (GMRC)
- Mumbai Metro Operation Corporation Limited (MMMOCL)
Key Focus Areas of the Meeting:
The aim of the meeting was to establish a platform for metro systems to interact, share best practices, and align on future goals in Rolling Stock operations. The agenda focused on both current challenges and future readiness:
- Best Practice Exchange- Showcased successful strategies in rolling stock upkeep and operational efficiencies across metros.
- Innovation in Maintenance- Deliberations on predictive and condition-based maintenance, overhauling techniques, and lean processes.
- Obsolescence Management- Methods to tackle aging components and ensure continuity of operations with legacy systems.
- Vendor Development & Localization- Push for ‘Make in India’ through localized sourcing and indigenous spare part development.
- Digital and AI Integration- Adoption of smart technologies for condition monitoring, diagnostics, and lifecycle analysis.
- Cost Optimization- Focus on reducing lifecycle costs through data-driven strategies and proactive maintenance planning.
CMRL’s Strategic Positioning and Future Readiness:
For CMRL, the event holds strategic value as the organization is actively working toward completing Phase 2, Stage 1 of its metro expansion project by the end of 2025. The knowledge gained from the event will play a crucial role in integrating top-notch technologies and accelerating automation in train operations.
By embracing a collaborative approach with peer organizations and leading the Rolling Stock Working Group, CMRL aims to establish new records in metro operations across India. This step not only improves internal preparedness for future expansions but also contributes to accelerating the overall performance of Indian metro systems.
Empowering the Indian Metro Ecosystem:
The first meeting of the Rolling Stock Working Group has laid the foundation for a more unified approach to metro development in India. It supports MoHUA’s broader goal of achieving synergy in operations and maintenance practices across cities while ensuring sustainability and passenger-centric innovations remain at the forefront.
This initiative is poised to drive collective action and consistent upgrades across India’s metro networks, enhancing safety, efficiency, and public satisfaction in the long run.
Conclusion:
The Rolling Stock Working Group meet hosted by CMRL marks a key milestone in collaborative metro development. By bringing together metro operators from across India, the event reinforces the commitment to innovation, standardization, and sustainable practices, setting the stage for a more connected and future-ready urban transit ecosystem.
Source: CMRL | Image Credit: CMRL
Timely insights, straight to your WhatsApp—stay updated with ease!
