Kolkata Metro Makes Energy-Efficient Switch to Aluminium Third Rail

Kolkata Metro has replaced its steel third rail with an aluminium one along the Dakshineswar-New Garia corridor, aiming for an 84% energy loss reduction. This initiative, set to complete in two years, will improve train acceleration and save significant annual costs.

The Kolkata Metro announced on Sunday the successful replacement of the 'third rail' at Girish Park siding with a new aluminium version under the Dakshineswar-New Garia corridor. This replacement marks a significant step towards energy efficiency.

Metro Railway has set a two-year target to replace all current steel third rails with aluminium ones, projecting an 84 percent reduction in energy loss. This initiative is expected to save around Rs one crore per year for every kilometer of route covered.

On Saturday night, a 200-meter-long steel third rail was replaced with an aluminium third rail, which boasts superior electrical conductivity, reducing voltage drops and energy losses. This transition will facilitate faster train acceleration and align Kolkata Metro Railway with leading global services.

(With inputs from agencies.)