Velachery–St. Thomas Mount MRTS Extension Set for Speed Testing.

Ahead of the statutory inspection by the Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety (CCRS), New Delhi, the Southern Railway has scheduled a high-speed trial on the newly completed Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) extension between Velachery and St. Thomas Mount.

The inspection by the CCRS is set to take place on Thursday. According to a senior Southern Railway official, the commissioner will first conduct a detailed statutory examination of the corridor using a motor trolley from St. Thomas Mount to Velachery. The inspection will focus on the track structure and associated infrastructure to ensure compliance with prescribed safety standards.

Following the inspection, a high-speed trial run will be carried out using a nine-car air-conditioned electrical multiple unit (EMU) train between Velachery and St. Thomas Mount stations. The trial is aimed at assessing key operational parameters, including track geometry, riding quality, signalling systems, and the functioning of overhead equipment.

To support the trial, Southern Railway will deploy an Advanced Track Recording System to measure track parameters and verify adherence to safety and quality norms. The inspection and speed trial are crucial steps before the extension can be opened for passenger services.