Metro Rail News March 2021- Women's Empowerment Special

A Symbroj Media Publication

METRO RAIL NEWS

ISSN 2582-2330 / Vol. V / Issue 51 / Monthly / March 2021

With Deep Focus On Metro,Railway, RRTS , HSR & Allied Industries

Special Issue

Women Empowerment

Dr. Amita Singh

Ms. Sophie Moochhala

Health Safety and Environment Specialist

Managing Director, Fluid Controls

NEWS | PROJECT UPDATES | TENDERS | EVENTS | JOBS | INTERVIEW | BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY MRTS Project Gorakhpur LRT, Visakhapatnam Metro, Coimbatore Metro

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EDITOR’S NOTE Editor Note

FROM THE DESK OF

MANAGING EDITOR

Narendra Shah Managing Editor

Dear Readers Women unarguably have a significant contribution to the rise of civilization. The world has witnessed and has been under a considerable influence of women worldwide and in every field there is a human participation. The innate ability of a woman to care, love and sacrifice for others has shaped the world we live in today.

She has always played the more important character of human life in the form of a mother, daughter, wife and sister. She, on occasions, appears as a nurturer, a guide and a partner and a companion from time to time.

International Women's Day's theme is "Women in leadership: Achieving an equal future in a post-Covid-19 World". It acknowledges the tremendous effort by women and girls worldwide in shaping an equal future and recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

I feel immensely happy yet again to hand you over another edition of our magazine on the eve of Women's Day to acknowledge the efforts of women around us in whatever possible ways we can.

Dr. Amita Singh (Health Safety and Environment Specialist) appears in the cover story and exclusive interview of Ms. Sophie Moochhala (MD Fluid Controls) along with other regular columns such as the new project of the month, Article, White paper, focus system, New development in the metro project, upcoming events, job openings and live tenders are there for you to read.

I am sure that an acknowledgement to works of ladies like Dr. Amita and Ms Sophie would definitely help encourage numerous ladies like her to break the barrier of sectors mainly participated by males and chase their dreams.

I wish you a happy reading.

Narendra Shah

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Managing Editor Metro Rail News (A Symbroj Media Publication) E-mail: editor@metrorailnews.

METRO RAIL NEWS | March 2021

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CONTENT

contents Index

14

Edirtor Note

06

News Highlight

10

Cover Story

15

Dr. Amita Singh

34

Health Safety and Environment Specialist

Exclusive Interview

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Ms. Sophie Moochhala Managing Director, Fluid Controls PvLtd.

Project of the Month

22

41

8

Women Empowerment

25

Article

28

White Papper

38

Focus System

41

New Development

48

Event

50

Job

52

Tender Live

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News Highlights expanded by more than 469 km, and today a total of 717 km of the metro is operational in 18 cities in the country.

UPMRC MD Shri Kumar Keshav inaugurated the manufacturing of Kanpur Metro Coaches through ribbon-cutting ceremony| Photo Copyright: UPMRCL

Alstom begins manufacturing of Kanpur Metro Coaches

Alstom India officially begins the manufacturing of Metro trains for the Kanpur Metro Rail Project. UP Metro's Managing Director Shri Kumar Keshav today inaugurated the Rolling Stocks' manufacturing (Metro Trains) in Bombardier's Savli Plant in Gujrat, located near Vadodara, on February 26, 2021.

The manufacturing of Metro coaches for Kanpur Metro started at the Savli plant after the Puja ceremony by Shri Kumar Keshav, MD, UPMRC and in the presence of Shri Sushil Kumar, Director (Operations), UPMRC and Shri Atul Kumar Garg, Director (Rolling Stock & Systems), UPMRC. Bhopal and Indore Metro Gets RS. 262 CR in MP Budget 202122 Madhya Pradesh government allocated Rs. 262 Crore for Bhopal and Indore metro project. Finance minister Jagadish Devda presented the state budget of Rs. 2.42 Lakh Crore for this year on March 2, 2021.

According to the Sources, in the last three years, the MP government has expanded

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RS. 475 Crore for the development of metro projects.

Madhya Pradesh Government spent a lot of money for the development of metro projects, but they can't achieve as per expectations, but in this year MP government take an initiative of "Atmanirbhar Bharat" Mission which ensure people satisfactions and also increase the growth of public transportation- said by Jagadish Devda

While elaborating the government's plan of extending the metro rail network, the Union minister said that by the 75th year of India's Independence in 2022, the metro rail network would extend to around 1000 kms by a present network.

By 2025 at least 25 Indian cities will have a metro network with a total network of 1700 kms.

The Minister said that the government's focus is to develop an inclusive system together with multimodal integration and last-mile connectivity under the new metro rail policy.

Johnson Lifts to supply Escalators for Kanpur and Agra Metro Projects Metro Network to be expanded in the country, 25 cities to have metro by 2025: Union Minister The Union Minister of Housing & Urban Affairs Mr. Hardep Singh Puri shared his vision and opinion for expanding the country's metro rail network.

The Minister recently was expressing his views in a webinar where he spoke as the key speaker. Mr Puri said that there is a need for improved connectivity of metros in Indian cities. Highlighting the development in the metro rail network in the country in the last six years, considering it to be the most sustainable mode of the public transport system, he said that till 2014, there were only 248 kilometres of metro rail network operational in five Indian cities. During a period of 06 years, the network has

M/S Johnson Lifts Pvt. Ltd has got the contract from Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC) for the supply of Escalators including maintenance of two years during the Defect Liability Period (DLP) and one-year Comprehensive Annual Maintenance beyond the DLP Period for Kanpur (Corridor 1 and 2) and Agra (Corridor 1).

According to Technical and Financial Evaluation of offer submitted on 02.12.2020 and as per the terms and conditions of the tender KNPAGE-04 and on 27.12.2021 M/S Johnson Lifts Pvt. Limited got the letter of acceptance.

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News Highlights Chinese rolling stock and components conglomerate CRRC Nanjing Puzhen is setting up its metro coach manufacturing plant at Sri City in Andhra Pradesh at an initial investment of around Rs 350 crore.

The Navi Mumbai metro to be operational by Dec 2021: CIDCO

The partial section of Navi Mumbai Metro Phase 1 is expected to be opened by the end of this year as planned by CIDCO (City and Industrial Development Corporation) Maharashtra.

The plant, for which the groundbreaking ceremony was held recently, will be built on a plot of 45.3 acres and will be commissioned by the year-end.

The project, aimed at generating employment for over 500 people, will manufacture rolling stock (coaches) for metro projects by Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation (BMRCL), Delhi Metro Rail Corporation(DMRCL), Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority and Chennai Metro Rail Corporation (CMRCL).

CRRC setting up metro coach plant in Andhra Pradesh, to invest Rs 350 crore

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Mumbai Metro Gaining Pace – MMRDA begins pre-trial run Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) Metropolitan Commissioner Shri.

R.A.Rajeev flagged off the Dynamic Testing of the Prototype Metro Train at Charkop Depot on February 25, 2021.

This a step before starting the trial run process. the DMRC and BEML teams were also present. this train is a true Atmanirbhar Product

The commercial services between Central Park in Kharghar to Pendhar in Taloja at five stations are planned to be started first, with the remaining sections at the route likely to be started by December 2022.

The CIDCO officials said that the commercial operation between station 7-11 (Central Park to Pendhar) and between station 1-6 (Belapur to Kharghar sector 14) is scheduled tentatively by the end of December 2021 and December 2022, respectively, after seeking certification from Commissioner, Metro Rail Safety (CMRS).

underground tunnels as it would increase the cost of the project. JMRC has also invited invitations and suggestions from the public.

The Navi Mumbai metro to be operational by Dec 2021: CIDCO Jaipur Metro Rail Corporation has finalized the revised detailed project report of Jaipur Metro corridor Phase-2.

A total of 23.5 KM metro rail network has been planned between India Gate and Ambabari at Rs' estimated cost. 4,546 Crore.

There are 21 stations in the phase-2 which include Sitapur Industrial Area, Shatabdi Nagar, Pratap Nagar, Sanganer, Sitabari, Banu Nagar, Ram Bagh, C- Scheme, Chandra Pola, Bani Park, Sirampura, Ambabari, Prominent hospitals like SMS Hospital, Apollo, Zanana which also connects Jaipur International Airport.

The first Driverless Metro Train developed in India by BEML was taken to test track for the dynamic test by the BEML team in Mumbai. BEML bags the 'MRS1' Contract for the supply of 96 trains and supplied the first Metro train under this contract.

The prototype of Train Set-1 was received at Charkop depot on January 28, 2021, and Maharastra CM Uddhav Thackeray unveiled it on January 29 Jan 2021.

Once the train set arrived at Charkop, Depo, BEML engineers check with 6 car trains separately divided into two units of 3 cars, each being prepared for energization & limited movement using only hard-wired commands.

The State Government should take up this project and it will be done by 2031.

JMRC does not decide to construct any

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News Highlights capital region.

It aims to induct 35,000 electric two, three, fourwheelers and buses along with 1,000 electric vehicles and 250 public charging and battery swapping stations for last-mile connectivity. It has also waived road tax and registration fees for all battery electric vehicles for the next three years.

CRRC setting up metro coach plant in Andhra Pradesh, to invest Rs 350 crore On Thursday, Gujarat Government allocates a budget of Rs. 2068 Crore for the first bullet project between Mumbai to Ahmedabad highspeed metro rail corridor and other metro rail projects planned in the state.

Rs. 1500 Crore has been allocated for the bullet train project, and Rs. 568 Crore has been allocated for the under-construction Ahmedabad and Surat metro rail project, including Metro Lite, Metro Neo Projects for Vadodara, Rajkot Bhavnagar and Jamnagar.

According to National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited, a total of 12,013 hectares have been acquitted of which 904 hectares are in Gujarat, 7.65 hectares in Dadra and Nagar Haveli and 101 hectares in Maharashtra and this work would be completed by 2025.

State Govt allocates Rs 6,683 crore for Coimbatore Metro Rail project The deputy chief minister of Tamil Nadu O Panneerselvam allocated Rs 6,683 crore for the Coimbatore metro rail project in the interim budget that was tabled on February 23 2021. The fund allocation comes almost three years after he announced the Coimbatore metro rail project in the assembly.

Deputy Chief Minister in his budget speech said that a detailed feasibility report for setting up the metro rail system for about 44 km at a cost of Rs 6,683 crore in the first phase was already prepared and the same was under scrutiny.

The Coimbatore Metro Rail project, which consists of five corridors covering a total distance of 144 km, has been proposed, and a detailed project report was underway.

Delhi Metro deploys ETO Motors' electric vehicles Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) recently flagged off e-rickshaw services, operated by Hyderabad-based electric mobility and serviceprovider company ETO Motors, from Jamia Millia Islamia Metro station to provide first- and last-mile connectivity to commuters. As part of its EV policy, the Delhi Government aims to register at least 5 lakh electric vehicles by 2024 in order to reduce air pollution in the national

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The cabinet has approved the extension of the metro route from PCMC to Nigdi on the Pimpri Chinchwad – Swargate Line. This extension is part of the 16.5 km PCMC-Swargate line which will now be extended by 4.4 km from Pimpri to Nigdi.

According to the plan, this will be an elevated line with three new stations at Chinchwad, Akurdi and Nigdi. This line will also have a depot, parking bays, multimodal transport integration and pedestrian bridge. The Pune Metro extension was earlier estimated to cost around Rs 1,050 crore.

The first corridor would cover 26 km between Ukkadam and Kaniyur, the second 24 km between Ukkadam and Bilichi near Karamadai on Mettupalayam Road, the third 42 km between Thanneerpandal on Thadagam Road and Karanampettai on Trichy Road, the fourth 44 km between Karunya Nagar and Ganeshapuram, and the fifth corridor would cover 8 km between Ukkadam and Vellalore, where the integrated bus terminus would come up.

Maharashtra Govt approves extension plan of Pune Metro Rail Corridor The Maharashtra state cabinet on February 17 2021 gave its approval for the first extension to the Rs 11,420 crore Pune Metro Rail project.

Kochi Metro Rail Granted Drone Use Permission For Water Transport System Project Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMLR) has been granted a conditional exemption for drone usage by the Centre for Integrated Urban Regeneration & Water Transport System Project (IURWTS).Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) and Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) have granted conditional exemption for Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) usage to Kochi Metro Rail Limited, Kerala for Integrated Urban Regeneration & Water Transport System Project (IURWTS), read a press statement from the Ministry of Civil Aviation on Wednesday. This conditional exemption is valid till December 31 2021, from the date of issue of the letter or until the full operationalization of Digital Sky Platform (Phase-1), whichever is earlier, the press statement read.

As per the statement, this exemption shall be valid only if all conditions and limitations as stated by the Ministry in the statement, are strictly adhered to. In case of violation of any condition, this exemption shall become null and void.

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COVER STORY

Carving way out of adversary: Dr. Amita Singh Standing Strong and Proud with Unfettered Imagination and Individualism

T

he civil engineering industry is growing at a fast pace today. Women in construction are breaking ground in a male-dominated industry. By 2022, it is expected that women will make up 46.8% of the construction industry, as research findings.

Construction, civil engineering in specific, has always been a male-driven field. It is still predominantly male, but it has come a long way in terms of diversity, including other minorities. It is starting to change. The participation or presence of a Women Leads Engineer’s or key person in this field is still a rare sight in India. On this International Women’s Day, we take a moment to dig into Dr Amita Singh’s experience.

In recognition of International Women’s Day on March 8, and this year’s theme considers, we are featuring stories from our leaders, describing their own bold moments about workplace equality and honouring diversity and inclusion.

Dr. Amita Singh, a Health Safety and Environment Specialist professional, presently working as HSE Engineer/Manager at CDMSMITH Qatar, is a lady who paved her way out of adversaries, faced the challenges of a male-dominated sector but never forgot to chase the field of her choice and profession of her dreams. She is definitely a source of inspiration to several ladies who hold the ambition of doing something which is not a stereotype, new and challenging.

“As she defines her current, our company promotes equal opportunities for both men and women because we recognize that it doesn’t matter about the gender of a person, as long as they can provide the key skills and experience necessary to benefit our company and our clients in terms of innovation, broadening our approach and strengthening ourselves within the industry. We are stronger with a diverse team and our successes, year-on-year, as we’ve increasingly diversified our teams and brought more women into the industry, shows that.”

Parting a govt. sector and opting for a Private job was never so easy. But Dr. Singh made it happen. She undoubtedly is a source of inspiration to millions of women like her who dare to dream but forget to chase simply because her dreams deny society’s parameter, the parameters that states a woman, the task which should or should not be done.

She likes the passion for society’s challenges, whether a specific task conforms with so-called womanhood or not and has done it for several years. On a general note, if we talk of Indian society, a woman’s task ought to be soft, requiring less physical effort, easy or comfortable. Dr. Singh broke the myth, and she

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Dr. Amita Singh Health Safety and Environment Specialist

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COVER STORY denies the boundary set by the society to let decide a lady human choose her profession, by passion-hobby, and source of her livelihood. But, most importantly, despite all adversary’s Dr. Amita Singh comes out outshining, triumphant and victorious.

Metro Rail News salutes Dr Amita Singh for her attitude, extraordinary zeal and efforts. Her no. of achievements has been par beyond excellence. Rendering her services on a number of important positions and responsibilities, Dr. Singh in a true

recognizing women’s achievements while supporting those who are challenged by stereotypes and bias.

Dr. Amita Singh needs no introduction. Her contribution to the field of Civil Construction and Metro network development is well known. Presently working as Lead Environmental, Health and Safety Specialist, she has a total experience of 19 yrs in multiple fields in construction and research.

Below is the excerpt of interaction with Dr Singh with the Metro Rail News team where she expressed her views lucidly on various issues relating to women empowerment in India. Here are edited excerpts:

Q. How come choose a field like civil engineering and that too construction which usually demands extreme field visit, a strong physical health, precisely to say a sector which is mostly men driven?

sense symbolizes the word ‘Super remarkable women’.

Metro Rail News identifies her as a personality who motivates a number of like-minded females like her and sets up herself as an epitome figure who sets an example, especially for girls who want to make a career in civil engineering or the construction technology industry.

Dr. Singh can be one of the prominent ladies in the country who have made a significant contribution to women empowerment in India. Her efforts towards pioneering women’s effort in the technical field, especially metros, are noteworthy.

Acknowledging her contribution to society in an innovative and somewhat inspirational way, the magazine took the opportunity and talked to her on the occasion of International Women’s Day to know her views on various issues relating to women empowerment, women participating in technical or innovative field in the country.

Metro Rail News continues its legacy of bringing to its readers the most recent update, news and event relating to development of Metro services in India. This edition is dedicated to women power who have made a significant contribution to the growth and development of metro services in the country with “Choose to Challenge”, representing everyone’s role in

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Ans: I was in the beginning working in a research field at Lucknow. After marriage, I had to relocate with my husband to a new city, leaving my work and joining a new role in the private sector. It was a tough time those days. But I joined a construction company, worked for it and worked in the Health Safety and Environment department. It was a bit challenging initially, but the situation improved gradually. In fact, I started enjoying my work with passion. Then I was progressively considered for a senior position and led few projects. So, I would say that there is a biological difference between a male and a female. Still, it is also true that whichever field is chosen and whosoever chooses it, be it a male or female, and it is just a matter of time when one gets accustomed to one’s job role. But definitely, the person must have an interest in that field. This certainly is required. So, in my opinion, there is no sector today which can be said to be men driven. Construction or civil engineering is the same way.

Because usually, we see little or no effort in this field, women are making a career effort; it is generally said to be a man driven field. You see the defence sector. We have women fighter pilots now. So, judging any field without women’s participation or competition and stating it to be male-driven, male-dominated, I think it is not justifiable. If you take my opinion, any field today is safe for a female in the same way as any indoor assignment or job role is considered for her.

Q. Most ladies prefer to be an architect, interior designer, web designer etc. Do you think it is the fear of society that compels her to think so?

Ans: Ya, to some extent definitely. Society is what. Society is

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COVER STORY nothing but you and me. All the job role you mentioned in your question are basically 10 – 05 office or sitting jobs. Does not require too much field visits. There are so many things today that compels a young lady to decide for her life and future. It’s all societal—the situation around you. You see, the condition or situation of women in terms of liberty is much better in metros compared to what it is in smaller cities. The reason simply is the societal thought, the opportunities, development, initiatives taken. So, altogether a no. of reasons become the “ You and me “ who make a society. The construction industry makes civil works more suitable for male employee and workers, but that doesn’t mean a woman can not do it. As I already said, for one to accomplish any task, one should have a definite interest attitude in it.

approach should be made towards it. The effort in this regard should be made at a very early age. So, we can have a better society then.

Q. So, do you want to say that we need to bring change in our educational system?

Ans: Only bringing about a change in the education system or levying it at the school’s shoulders won’t change. It is us who need to make a change. While bringing up our children, we must first make culture and ensure no difference from our side between a male and female child. We need to improve our homes first. Maintain a free environment there first, engage our kids in making our home a Bias-Free Zone. This is a key part of the responsibility, moral parenting. Develop tolerance and mutual respect in kids first, then we shall see a better society or a women-friendly society.

Q. Have you ever been in a situation that made you think that ‘women’ and ‘power’ are two incompatible concepts?

Ans: No, never! Supportive and admirable people have always surrounded me, and I see myself more as a woman of strength,

Q. What is your opinion about the current socio-economic condition in India in terms of women upliftment and empowerment. What changes would you like to bring if given an opportunity?

Ans: Women empowerment has always been a topic of concern in India. Things are changing. There was a time when women in the economy, women in employment, women in finance, construction etc., were not seen as macro-critical. That’s no longer the case. The economic impact of achieving gender equality in India is estimated to be US$700 billion of added GDP by 2025. Social enterprise, which promises both economic empowerment and social transformation, is driving tremendous positive change in India’s lives. But it is also at the heart of a growing debate about India’s social sector’s past and future.

But still required more scrutinize, it hasn’t been focused that much as it is done now for the last few years until few decades back. Jan Dhan Yojana, Sukanya Samriddhi, Beti Padhao Beti Bachao, Jananni Surkasha Yojna, PM-JAY, Ujjwala Sukhad Matritva Yojna etc., seeks to empower women and a no. of other flagship program reflect the government’s commitment to uplift women’s condition in India. But still, you see the cases for women violations in the news. So, there’s still a lot to do improvise. The legal frame system needs to be strengthened.

Most influential people need to change their behaviours psychology towards fair respect gender. Hence, an honest

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Q. Is there are any Women whom you feel very much inspired from?

Ans-On a personal note I admire, respect my mother, who gave me culture believes and positivity; it’s important to stay true to my belief in equal opportunity and speak up and focus on doing the right things; let the efforts and results speak for themselves – ultimately it is about a person’s capability, not the gender!

There’s a no. of Women’s who I have had always taken inspiration from mentors, including men!

The no. of them have been my co-workers, seniors, specially in Metro and construction, research area, and.

I always praise and like very much the simple way of late Sushma Swaraj ji, a beautiful, strong woman who’s both a

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COVER STORY mother and a wife. When spoke, the world listened. Mrs. Nirmala Sitharamanji, very inspirational, the way she is holding and managing important portfolios. Truly, that’s the real power of a woman in action.

And Late Mrs. Indira Gandhi also had been a very stout personality for me, as without a doubt, through her dignity, power, and morality, she embodies a wonderful notion of female power. And balance work and family.

Smt. Pratibha Devi Patil, the first women president of India, is also an inspirational figure for many women worldwide. The way she represented, the poise and dignity carried along as the first citizen of the country and, more importantly, as a woman is worth something to learn from.

In fact, I have always taken inspiration from a no. of women achiever all over, especially my country, who help me keep my morale high, seeing and acknowledging their success in whichever field they are. I always have high and deep regards for them.

I have high respect for Late Dr. APJ Kalam. He inspired others in many ways with a humble attitude, a dreamer first, leader and scientist, politician, and teacher.

Q. How do you see Metro Rail development in India.?

Ans: Truly impressive vision goal archive of a “cleaner, greener, safer and healthier system.”

It’s been a praiseworthy journey so far. The present government is maintaining a good pace for development of metro rail network in India. By 2025 we expect the metro to run in 25 Indian cities with a total metro rail network of 1700 kms. If achieved, that would be a big feat, and seeing the way the metro project is going in India does not seem very difficult.

Q. What is your opinion about metro and women empowerment? Do you see any correlation between them?

Ans: Metro has given a safer culture, especially to women commuters. Metro certainly has added to the safety and easy commuting of women in suburban and busy areas. Women feel safe in metros, have an easy and swift accessibility to their destination. A safe and comfortable transport system in urban cities helps develop the right sense of security in travelers, passengers, and the general public. If a woman cannot feel safe for her basic necessities, she cannot be empowered. The other areas definitely can be women police personnel, female staff and support staff helping in metro run be ticketing, metro run, food and hospitality in the metro station area. There are so many examples that can attribute to or reflect towards women empowerment connected to the metro. Every person deserves to live a healthy, productive and safe life. The challenge, of course, is how to do that in a meaningful and high-impact positive way culture.

Q. What had been the greatest challenges in your professional career?

Ans. Overcoming my fear.

The initial days were difficult for me. Start years were not comfortable. But, I remained focused on my work, set my target, and continuously worked for it. Another difficult time was when my baby was born. Rest I’ve always been

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COVER STORY surrounded by supportive and admirable people. But even though I feel required some strict culture improvement for women welfare facility at the construction site.

Q. Would you like to say something about your achievements during your journey as a challenge and succeeds?

Ans: Not exactly, I think. There’s still a lot to learn. Every position and every opportunity gives you a space to learn and improve your skills. But, Ya, I would definitely say that by the blessings of almighty, my parents and my family, I have appreciated exceeding and thriving to notable achieved safe man-hours for various projects worked for. Few projects led have been recognized for best practices world-wide. I have also been fortunate to work for Delhi & Lukhnow Metro in the construction phase. Altogether, the journey is continuing, and I’m pretty much satisfied with it.

family and work commitments is something that I’ve always borne in mind. I speak openly about my family commitments because it is important to recognize that we all have a life beyond work.

Proper time management, setting priorities are some of the qualities one should learn to develop. Additionally, I would say myself to be lucky to have a very understanding and supportive family. Whatever I have achieved, I would definitely say it to be because of my family.

Q. What would be your message to readers?

Q. How has been your family. Did your family members support you? How much marks will you give yourself for being able to maintain the balance between your personal and professional life?

Ans: Regarding marks (laughing), for that, you’ll have to ask my husband and family members.

I had great support from my husband and parents’ terrific sponsors who helped me believe, Jump into to mentoring; it’s about helping girls see the possibilities.

But, I’ll definitely say that your professional life cannot be said to be successful until you have a happy and successful personal life. I had always been focused about it and prioritized my job and responsibilities. Here I would say that for a working woman maintaining a balance between her personal and professional life is a bit more difficult compared to her male counterpart as women tend to be in dual charge. A homemaker as well as a working professional. (Laughing) So, I think male does have a privilege on this part sometime. But, surely on a personal note, I would like to convey to all our brave women’s hoping to build a very successful career and, more importantly, in a new field that they should definitely learn to balance their personal and professional lives. I think sometimes it takes a while for women to develop this. Like many people, I have children, and balancing

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Ans: (especially to my women readers) Be focused, dedicated and hard-working. Never underestimate yourself and believe in your strengths. Early alertness and focus shall definitely help you achieve your dreams you have always looked for.

Q. On International Women’s Day, what is the most important message you want to send out to young women thinking about their careers?

Ans: Be wise and humble. Success takes time, effort, and patience. If you’re willing to work hard and get out of your comfort zone, you will succeed regardless of your gender.

In the end, it all comes down to how dedicated you are to what you do. No matter the gender, age, religion, or background, the industry will grow as long as there is motivation. All-in-all, there has never been a better time to be a woman in the construction world!

Stay Safe and Healthy and grow in this beautiful world with a sense of responsibility and prosperity!!

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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

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o celebrate International Women’s Day, our Managing Editor Mr. Narendra Shah, had a conversation with Ms. Sophie Moochhala - Managing Director - Fluid Controls Private Limited. In which she speaks about the Company business strategy, Atmanirbhar Bharat Policy and Growth in a Post COVID Situation.

Here are the excerpts from the interview:Tell our readers about various innovative products recently developed for Metro & Railway Industries?

Fluid Controls Private Limited was established in 1974 by Dr. Y.E. Moochhala, a Ph.D. from Northwestern University, the USA with a vision to deliver high quality & high-performance products which delight customers. Fluid Controls offers customers comprehensive end-to-end “Make in India” solutions for Rail & Metro brake piping arrangements – from design & engineering services to supply of highperformance products and installation services.

From its inception in 1974, Fluid Controls has engaged in original R&D and also has had an ethos of developing indigenous replacements for imported products. Our founder, Dr. Y E Moochhala, after a successful career in the USA, decided to return to India because he was a strong believer in a selfreliant India. His idea was to develop high quality, high-performance products to suit local prototype climatic and performance expectations. Today, Fluid Controls is approved as an “In-House R&D unit” by the Department of Scientific & Industrial Research (DSIR), Government of India.

Since 2011, we have developed more than 25 new products, which is very much in line with the Fluid Controls vision statement.

Adding to our strength in innovating, Fluid Controls has filed its first Global Patent and is in the process of filing two more patents.

Particularly for the Rail & Metro Industry Fluid Controls has developed Across Frame Connectors for connection of pipelines between the shell and bogie for high-speed electric locomotives. These connectors eliminate welding processes and allow for seamless connection of pipes between the shell and bogie. Across Frame connectors also reduce component parts required to be purchased as they are integrated fitting assemblies. Fluid Controls has also developed an entire range of FlexiGripTM connectors to provides zero-leakage and vibration resistant connections

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“Success is a multi-faceted word! Professionally, for me, success is to build a brand which is trusted by customers and which delights customers.”

Sophie Moochhala Managing Director Fluid Controls Pvt. Ltd. https://www.metrorailnews.in

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW between misaligned pipes or between pipes of different materials. The triple sealing action of the split ring, washer and O ring provides for a completely leak-proof connection. The split ring also provides superior vibration resistance by ensuring the joint remains in a springing condition.

As an ongoing part of product development, Fluid Controls also customizes standard products to suit specific customer requirements.

How do you see the Govt of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat policy?

Fluid Controls is a “Vocal for Local” MSME organization and we whole-heartedly support the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. Domestic manufacturers have the capability – be it in manufacturing, quality, or R&D – to cater to domestic requirements across sectors. In the past, legacy international vendors and lack of firm procurement policies constrained the effective implementation of “Make in India”. Atmanirbhar Bharat, which clearly outlines procurement policies, will go a long way to boost domestic manufacturers, especially in the MSME sector.

With our manufacturing and R&D capabilities, Fluid Controls can contribute immensely to provide high quality, highperformance products to all sectors in the move to localize supplies.

Please share some of your value-added, problem-solving product and services offered by Fluid Controls?

A good example of a product we developed is the Fluid Controls Hydraulic Swaging Unit (HSU), which is a tool to ensure that twin ferrule connectors are installed correctly at site. The unique feature of our HSU is that there is no need for manual intervention in the process. We also offer design and engineering services and have completed conversion projects (from one connector system to another) for several customers.

How Covid-19 outburst the Fluid Control’ business and the step you have taken to overcome it?

During the onset of the Pandemic COVID-19, our primary focus was to ensure the health and safety of our employees, their families, our customers and our business partners. And we had changed the way we approach every task and every activity.

We had to adapt our mode of operation since face-to-face meetings and interaction were not possible for some months (and we are still work-from-home at our Mumbai office!). We have invested in ERP and Microsoft Teams software to ensure the ease of teamwork and connectivity. To ensure seamless day-to-day operation, each department head would hold a daily telephonic meeting to discuss tasks and the way ahead.

We also had to change the way we conducted our external business. During the lockdown period, Fluid Controls engaged with customers via video conferencing and calls. And, to ensure the least disruption in schedules, we have provided regular updates on our business status and order status to them. As many of our customers still do not allow business visits, we continue to have a virtual engagement with them.

Once our plant became operational in May 2020, we provided https://www.metrorailnews.in

our employees with a safe working environment. Whilst a major part of our staff is still working from home, “Operational Safety” being the primary parameter for the health and safety of people at work in the plant, we have planned our manufacturing with a system and process-focused approach. At Fluid Controls, we “Engineer Connections Everyday”. And in the time of the COVID-19 pandemic, we learnt how to “Adapt Everyday”!

What is your view on Business Growth in a Post COVID Situation?

I am very optimistic about the post-COVID growth situation and increased Union Budget allocations this year for railways will definitely lead to more business for companies such as ours. In addition, we are very positive that the focus on freight, Metros and RRTS/LRTS networks will result in an increasing demand for rolling stock.

What are the Metro Projects in which Fluid Controls currently associated?

We are currently associated with projects for Mumbai Metro, Pune Metro, Delhi Metro and Chennai Metro.

BEML suppled the First Driverless Metro Train developed in India form Mumbai Metro Line 2A. What is the role of Fluid Controls in the development of this true Atma Nirbhar product?

We are very happy to have been associated with BEML for Mumbai Metro. The Metro cars supplied by BEML have Fluid Controls DIN Single Ferrule connectors installed in the brake piping system. This is a very big achievement for Fluid Controls and we are very proud to have been approved by BEML for this project.

Coming from a non-technical background, how do you manage the most senior management position of an innovative product engineering company?

“Success” is a multi-faceted word! Professionally, for me, success is to build a brand which is trusted by customers and which delights customers. At an organizational level, it is to build a team who is motivated, innovative and performs to high expectations. In this context, my having or not having an engineering background doesn’t really matter as I am supported by a team which has stellar engineering credentials.

What are the company’s business strategy and future expansion plan concerning the Metro & Railway market?

Over the years, Fluid Controls has developed comprehensive expertise for manufacturing, by identifying the right materials and ensuring “fit and forget” assembly. For Rail & Metro applications, we offer complete fitment of brake piping components, engineering and site installation services, prepiped assemblies for easy site fitment, double ferrule fittings, DIN single ferrule fittings, threaded adaptors, Across Frame connectors, FlexiGripTM connectors, quick release connectors, isolation valves and clamps. A key part of our future plans is to tap into the brake piping business for the emerging high-speed train operations and to offer integrated solutions and hose assemblies to our current customer base. We are also focusing on global supplies to Europe, North America and SE Asia.

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PROJECT OF THE MONTH

By 2024, Gorakhpur is expected to get a light Metro Rail system

Image is for representation purpose only

Gorakhpur Metro (Metrolite) is a light rail transit (LRT) system approved to be built in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, by Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. (UPMRCL).

Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRCL) was assigned as the 'coordinator' by Uttar Pradesh's Government to bring all stakeholders together and get Gorakhpur Metro's Phase 1 project started In 2017. Later in the year, RITES was assigned to prepare its feasibility report, and the Detailed Project Report (DPR) submitted to UPMRCL in March 2019.

The state government's cabinet approved the project's DPR on October 9, 2020.

Gorakhpur Metro Routes (Proposed)

Photo copyright: Respective Authority

Gorakhpur Metrolite will be 27.41 km long with two lines & 27 stations.

The first line would be constructed from Shyam Nagar to Suba Bazar that cover 16.95 km of distance and comprises 16 stations.

Line-1 – Shyam Nagar – Sooba Bazar (16.95 km) • Type: Elevated • Depot: Sooba Bazar • Stations (16): Shyam Nagar, Bargadwa, Shastri Nagar, Nathmalpur, Gorakhnath Mandir, Hazaripur, Dharmshala, Gorakhpur Railway Station, University, Mohaddipur, Ramgarh Lake, AIIMS, Malviya Nagar, MMM Engineering College, Divya Nagar, Sooba Bazar The second line would be constructed from Gulriha to Kacheri Chauraha that covers 10.46 km of distance and comprises 11 stations Line-2 – Gulriha – Kachehri Chauraha (10.46 km) • Type: Elevated • Depot: Mugalaha • Stations (11): Gulariha, BRD Medical College, Mugalaha, Khanjanchi Bazar, Basharatpur, Ashok Nagar, Vishnu Nagar, Asuran Chowk, Dharamshala, Gol Ghar, Kachehri Chauraha Estimated Project Cost: Rs 4,672 crore

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PROJECT OF THE MONTH

Coimbatore Metro

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Type: Elevated Alignment: Along Trichy Road and Thadagam Road Line-4 – Ganeshapuram – Karunyanagar • Length: 44 km • Type: Elevated • Alignment: Along Sathyamangalam Road and Perur Road Coimbatore Metro Contractors Contract Feasibility Study and Detailed Project Report (DPR) Contractor SYSTRA MVA Consulting (India) Pvt. Ltd.

Project timeline 2011:Central Government announces Metro rail projects for Tier ii cities where Coimbatore is also included.

Image is for representation purpose only

Coimbatore Metro, also known as Kovai Metro, is a mass rapid transit system (MRTS) proposed to be built in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, by the Chennai Metro Rail Ltd (CMRL).

Coimbatore Metro's Phase 1 project has been on the drawing board since at least 2011. In 2017, Chennai Metro Rail Ltd. was appointed as the Project Executing Agency (PEA) and immediately invited bids for its feasibility study and Detailed Project Report (DPR) in 2 stages, funded by the KfW development bank.

In November 2019, a consortium of SYSTRA MVA Consulting (India) Ltd. – RITES Ltd. submitted its feasibility report for a 136 km master plan to the CMRL. If and when approved, a detailed project report (DPR) will be prepared.

Coimbatore Metro Proposed Routes Coimbatore Metro will have five corridors, with a total distance of 136 km.

Line-1 – Kaniyur to Ukkadam Bus Stand • Length: 26 km • Type: Elevated • Alignment: Along Avinashi Road Line-2 – Bilichi to Ukkadam Bus Stand • Length: 24 km • Type: Elevated • Alignment: Along Mettupalayam Road Line-5 – Vellalore – Ukkadam • Length: 8 km • Type: Elevated • Alignment: Via Poddanur and NH948

Line-3 – Karanampettai to Thannerpanthal • Length: 42 km

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2011:Tamil Nadu government under CM J. Jayalalithaa shelves metro rail project in favour of monorail.

Photo copyright: Respective Authority

2013:Metroman E. Sreedharan makes survey and announces Metro rail as suitable transport for Coimbatore.

2017:Tamil Nadu government under Edappadi K. Palaniswami again announce metro rail for Coimbatore.

2017:Tamil Nadu government announce the commencement of Coimbatore metro rail works by financial year 2017-18.

2017:Railway minister Suresh Prabhu also announces that central Government is ready to launch and fund the Coimbatore metrorail project.

2017:Tamil Nadu Government announces that feasibility study would be conducted and DPR will be prepared for Coimbatore metro by CMRL and the fund will be provided by German-based company.

2017:Tamil Nadu Government orders CMRL to float Tender.

CMRL releases Tender notice for preparing Coimbatore metros DPR and feasibility report.

2018:CMRL Floats tender for Coimbatore metro detailed project report and feasibility preparation.

2018:Kfw shortlists five firms to prepare the DPR and Feasibility study for the Coimbatore metro.

2019:Feasibility study and DPR under preparation by Systra Group.

2019:Feasibility study has been submitted by the Systra group to the Government and waiting for Approval.

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PROJECT OF THE MONTH 2019:Systra Group has also approached the district administration and the city municipal corporation to furnish details about development work to be implemented in the city and state highways, national highways roads and national highways authority of India (NHAI) roads. Based on the district administration's details and the corporation, the private company would prepare the DPR. 2019: Earthwork will commence from December of 2020.

2020:CMRL Held meeting with Highways Department and Coimbatore corporation officials and discussed about the implementation of the metro project. A section of the metro route was suggested to be changed because of its clashing with the ukkadam flyover. Metro line planned to extend up to Vellalore to connect the new bus terminus.

2020:A Fifth metro line has been proposed to connect Vellalore with Ukkadam.

2021:Tamil Nadu Government Allocates ₹6683 Crore as Funds to carry out Coimbatore metro rail project in 2021-22 Financial Budget.

Visakhapatnam Metro

In December 2019, the AP government decided to appoint a new consultant to prepare the project's new/revised Detailed Project Report for a 79.91 km Phase 1 for implementation under the public-private partnership (PPP) model with an estimated cost of Rs. 8,300 cr.

In March 2020, Urban Mass Transit Company Limited (UMTC) was announced by AMRC as the winner to prepare Vizag Metro's new DPR. Visakhapatnam Metro Phase 1 Routes Visakhapatnam Metro will have three corridors & 31 stations with a total distance of 136 km.

Line-1: Gajuwaka – Kommadi • Length: 30.38 km • Type: Elevated • Number of Stations: 18 • Station Names: Kommadi Junction, Hanumanthawaka Junction, Maddilapalem, Gurudwara Junction, Akkayyapalem, Kancharapalem, Muralinagar, Government Polytechnic College, Thatichetlapalem, Kancharapalem, Murali Nagar, GSI, NAD Junction, Visakhapatnam International Airport, Sheela Nagar, BHPV, Auto Nagar and Gajuwaka.

• Note: This line is planned to be extended to Vizag Steel Plant by 3.85 kms Line-2: Gurudwara Junction – Old Post Office • Length: 5.25 km • Type: Elevated • Number of Stations: 6 • Station Names: BVK College, RTC Complex, Dabagardens, Saraswati Circle, Poorna Market and Old Post Office.

Line-3: Thatichetlapalem – Chinna Waltair (Chinavalteru / RK Beach) • Length: 6.91 km • Type: Elevated • Number of Stations: 7 • Station Names: New Railway Colony, Railway Station, Allipuram Junction, RTC Complex, Siripuram Junction, Andhra University and Chinna Waltair.

Other Proposed Lines

Visakhapatnam (Vizag) Light Metro is a Light Rail Transit (LRT) system proposed to be built in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, by the Andhra Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (APMRC).

Its 42.54 km Phase 1's Detailed Project Report (DPR) with three elevated lines was initially prepared by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), who was also assigned to execute the project in September 2015.

In 2017, the project was put on hold due to its high cost and low ridership projections, which were not in line with India's new Metro Rail Policy. Also, the AP government had given priority to Vijayawada's metro.

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• Line-4: Law College Junction – Marikivalasa (8.21 km) • Line-5: Kommadi – Bhogapuram Airport (25.3 km) Visakhapatnam Metro Contractors Contract 79.91 km new Detailed Project Report (DPR) 's Preparer Contractor Urban Mass Transit Company (UMTC)

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WOMEN EMPOWERMENT

Women Empowerment @KPTL

T

he importance of diversity and gender equality at the workplace has gained prominence in the past few years.

A diverse working environment benefits the company’s overall innovation and performance goals. The idea of a woman being “indispensable” in workplace has never been more important. Many companies have realized and accepted the fact that the empowerment of women has a profound impact on overall business performance. Hence, creating an ecosystem that helps a woman balance multiple roles in life is essential for organizational growth.

KPTL also ensures that women are recognized equitably for company’s succession planning. They are also involved in mentoring and coaching of employees within their sphere of specialization in the company. Women are involved in active conversations about advancement opportunities and setting up of progressive career goals. Here they are also encouraged to pursue opportunities at every level of the corporate ladder. The talent pipeline has been open equally to all female employees.

Women Team at Kalpataru Power Transmission Limited, Railway Division.

To understand what women empowerment truly means we spoke to female employees of one of the leading EPC Company, Kalpataru Power Transmission Limited (KPTL). In KPTL’s Railway Division based out of Noida, we were pleased to see a good number of female employees being part of railway industry, which had been prominently male dominant and driven.

Both the genders, in KPTL, work harmoniously and there is no discrimination on any grounds. KPTL provides a gender neutral supportive work environment that actively empowers women to lead by encouraging mentorship and collaboration as well as nurturing family life with benefits like flexible work timings.

Women at KPTL are leading from front in all the functions of the business from procurement, to Design, to Business Development, to HR, to Project Planning and Management, etc. They are equally partaking at project sites, where they are actively contributing to the successful execution of the projects.

KPTL aims to have more female employees in Managerial roles where they are empowered to take strategic decisions for the teams, for the Projects and at large for the Organization. KPTL has come a long way in its endeavor to be identified as an equal opportunity employer.

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WOMEN EMPOWERMENT

Specialised Air Condition expert since 1974

I

n the spirit of International Women’s Day, Sidwal (An Amber Group Company) joins the Global Community in celebrating Women Empowerment and keeps pushing towards Gender Equality.

We at Amber Group and its subsidiaries are proud to be able to say that we have a substantial Female Staff working in our company, in every department, and at all levels. We understand that having a family and a career can be a balancing act and strive to support all our staff- especially female staff to ensure that each person can reach their full career potential while maintaining an excellent work-life balance. Having a happy workforce is vital to us!

• Free breast screening and cancer awareness camp organized, Health Talk on preventive healthcare, 63 women screened

We have been religiously involved in a lot of CSR Activities designed around Women Betterment. Some initiatives are undermentioned • Toilets for girls in Government Schools were developed and are being taken care of by Sidwal under Swachh Bharat Abhiyan • Promoting Education for Girls- Extensively involved in promoting education and sponsoring children in various Govt. schools.

We are dedicated to Empowering Women to achieve their full economic potential by inspiring them to become advocates, change-makers and leaders in their community. We equip them with resources, opportunities and a platform that facilitates networking, learning and sharing of experience

A Unit of

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WOMEN EMPOWERMENT

Women Empowerment @Matrix

W

e at Matrix strongly believe that women are a superlative bunch of talent who bring resilience and compassion to everything. Women tend to have a unique quality to bind together and make a perfect team.

Balancing both the roles is a tough task and essentially, for a team that has to deal with a bunch of people day in and day out. We value their exceptional talent of dedication, sincerity

A study figured out that low literacy and low technology access, among other factors, relegate women to lower-paying jobs with minimal rights protections, making them particularly vulnerable!

added with exceptionally good communication skills!

Talking about the empowerment part, various people hold various notions about it. However, for us, the very essence of empowerment comes with proper education. Any kid irrespective of gender should be granted the right to education.

As far as woman empowerment is concerned,

resilience in the face of crisis. This puts a strong emphasis on participation in political structures and formal decision-making and, in the economic sphere, on the ability to obtain an income that enables participation in economic decision-making.

“When a man is given the right to learn he gets educated but when a woman gets to learn the whole generation is given an education.”

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To avoid such situations, it is of utmost importance to reach such sectors, particularly women, to build their adaptive capacity and

And we at Matrix strongly believe in essaying our part, by giving equal chances irrespective of any categoric bifurcation. After all, it is, “It’s not about the ideas, it’s about implementing them!”

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ARTICLE

Innovating for Performance. Everyday.

Innovation & Product Design at Our DSIR Approved R&D Centre Fluid Controls Private Limited was established in 1974 by Dr. Y.E. Moochhala, a Ph.D. from Northwestern University, the USA with a vision to deliver high quality & high-performance products which delight customers. Fluid Controls® offers customers comprehensive end-to-end “Make in India” solutions for Rail & Metro brake piping arrangements – from design & engineering services to supply of high-performance products and installation services.

From its inception in 1974, Fluid Controls® has engaged in original R&D and also has had an ethos of developing products which are indigenous replacements of imported products. Our founder, Dr. Y E Moochhala, left his career in the USA and laid the foundation of Fluid Controls® because he was a strong believer in a self-reliant India. His idea was to develop high quality, high-performance products to suit local prototype climatic and performance expectations.

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Today, Fluid Controls® is approved as an “In-House R&D unit”

by Department of Scientific & Industrial Research (DSIR), Government of India. Our state-of-the-art R&D center is located at Chakan, Pune. Fluid Controls® offers design services and conversion engineering, including 3D modelling, FEA and prototyping via ANSYS and Solid Works. The Fluid Controls R&D team uses the latest software and is equipped to customize connectors and products for customer requirements. The R&D Center also has a laboratory equipped to conduct all pressure, vibration and reliability tests as well as in-house Spectro, PMI and UT testing.

Product design and development with performance testing is an inspiration for our business. Because of our R&D strength and DSIR approval, we are constantly researching new developments in our field and our primary research ensures that we are constantly innovating. Since 2011, we have developed more than 25 new products, which is very much in line with the Fluid Controls vision statement. Adding to our strength in innovating, Fluid Controls® has filed its first Global Patent and is in the process of filing two more patents.

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ARTICLE All Fluid Controls® products are designed from First Principles and validated using VDV and Finite Element Analysis. Our products are manufactured to the highest standards and we have the latest international product performance certifications.

We offer customers complete material traceability and have instituted a corporate policy of continuous improvement to ensure customer delight.

About Fluid Controls Fluid Controls® is a “Vocal for Local” company with over 45 years of experience in engineering fittings and connections for rail & metro brake piping assemblies. Fluid Controls® partners with customers to be a single source supplier for various connectors required for rail & metro applications. Our range of products include Double Ferrule Fittings with multiple sealing points and high vibration resistance, DIN Single Ferrule Connectors, Adaptors, FlexiGripTM & Quick Release Connectors, Isolating Cocks, and clamping accessories.

Our products ensure precision connections that are designed based on specific application requirements and perform to international standards. Fluid Controls connectors are certified to ASTM F1387-99 (2012), ISO 19879 (ISO 8434) and also to IEC and EN standards for corrosion and shock/vibration for fittings.

Fluid Controls® has recently introduced a range of services – including design & engineering services, testing services, on-site installation services and pre-fabricated assemblies.

Fluid Controls® offers design services for brake piping arrangements and conversion engineering, including 3D modelling, FEA and prototyping via ANSYS and Solidworks.

Our engineers work closely with customers to understand their requirements and develop effective solutions for them. And to cater to a growing need for comprehensive solutions, Fluid Controls® has introduced engineered installation services.

This service provides our customers with an end-to-end solution as they have a single source vendor for connectors supply and fitment. We also offer Pre-fabricated assemblies where readyto-fit assemblies are prepared at our facility. With precision tube formation, end formation and connector swaging, these assemblies offer convenient and easy fitment at site.

Fluid Controls® is approved by all Indian locomotive and coach OEM’s, Bombardier Transportation, Alstom, and GE Transportation.

Fluid Controls® is the recipient of the “CII Industrial Innovation Award for Medium Scale Manufacturin Organizations” and has been recognized as one of the “Top 25 Innovative Companies of the Year” at the Indian R&D Ecosystem Conclave 2019. Other recognitions include the “Rail Solution Provider of the Year [Instrumentation]” at Rail Infra & Mobility Business Digital Awards 2020” by Urban Transport News and the award for “Excellence in Technical Innovation” by ISA Maharashtra Section at PPA Meet 2020.

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ARTICLE What is 5G Technology?

5G in simple words can be said to be the next generation of Mobile broadband that will eventually replace, or at least augment 4G LTE (Long-Term Evolution) connection. LTE is a standard for wireless broadband communication for mobile devices and data terminals.

Power of 5G Commun

5G offers exponentially faster download and upload speeds. 5G will provide download speed of 1Gbps, which is at least 100 times the existing data speeds.

5G would deliver multi-Gbps peak rates, ultra low latency, massive capacity, and a more uniform user experience. Latency or the time taken by devices to communicate with wireless networks shall also decrease drastically.

5G will have a wider area in the frequency spectrum (range of frequencies) that would ensure no network congestion. It also increases energy efficiency and offers more stable network connections.

The standards for the usage of 5G are defined and driven by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project.

Evolution of Communication Technology 1G was launched in the 1980s and worked on analog radio signals. This network supported voice calls only. 2G was launched in the 1990s which used digital radio signals and supported both voice and data transmission with a bandwidth of 64 Kbps. 3G was launched in the 2000s with a speed of 1Mbps to 2 Mbps and it had the ability to transmit telephone signals including digitised voice, video calls and conferencing. 4G was launched in 2009 with a peak speed of 100Mbps (Mega Bytes Per Second) to 1Gbps (Giga bytes per second) and it also enabled 3D virtual reality.

How does a 5G work?

5G signals operate over previously untouched radio frequencies. Part of the network operates in a band known as sub 6 which is the spectrum between 600 megahertz and 6 GHz which is a spectrum that 4G LTE also shares. However, only 5G can go above and beyond these frequencies into higher bandwidth

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which is what makes it so much better.

5G can and will utilize a higher band of radio frequencies from 24 GHz to as high as 86 GHz resulting in far higher data rates and performance but with the tradeoff of reduced range. These new 5G Radio waves can carry way more data to and from devices they just can’t carry the increased load quite as far. This means that the service providers have to install a large number of small cellular towers in close proximity to each other to actually deliver the network.

These towers hold cell sites that are not very large in size. They can be easily fixed to building roofs or light poles but each one has to be physically installed which is why the rollout of widespread 5G is going to take quite some time. When these cell sites are in place they’ll be able to beam signals to specific locations where they are needed the most. This far better than how conventional radio towers deliver signal which is to spread it anywhere and everywhere regardless of site-specific demand.

5G operates on three different spectrum bands between 600 MHz and 86GHz. The three spectrum bands that 5G network will operate on are – 1. Low Band Network – It is the most common band used by carriers and service providers in around the world in different countries for 4G LTE. Low Band spectrum

offers the widest coverage and best wall penetration but it doesn’t offer any great shakes in the speed department. 5G running on the low band network will only run around 20 percent faster than current 4G with peak data speeds topping out at around 100 megabits per second.

2. High Band Spectrum – It offers the highest performance for 5G. However, it’s not without its drawback either. High band spectrum can offer peak speeds of up to 10 gigabits per second and has almost non-existent latency. But, its coverage area is narrow and penetration is poor. So, to utilize this network to its full potential users will have to access plenty of cells that are all relatively close.

3. Mid Band Spectrum – Mid band spectrum in simple words can be stated to be the spectrum slotting in somewhere between the low band and high band spectrum. It offers a balance of both speed and coverage. Mid band provides faster speeds and lower latency than low band with peak speeds of up to 1 gigabit per second. It may not compete with high bands in terms of power theoretically and on paper but in real world use and for most applications it will be more than enough. The coverage and penetration of mid band will also make it a very reliable and consistent connection.

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ARTICLE second mean a 100 times increase in performance compared to existing 4G networks. Users of high band 5G will be able to do things like download movies in under 10 seconds as opposed to several minutes and seamlessly watch 8K 3D streams without any congestion.

nications, Use in Railways

Examples such as these are great for visualizing the power of 5G but it’s important to remember that the speeds will also unlock the full capabilities of other emerging technologies including self-driving cars, drones, virtual reality, augmented reality and of course the IoT (Internet of Things).

The Internet of Things (IoT) also known as massive machine-to-machine Communications is the collective connection of billions of devices without any human intervention. This widespread connectivity has the potential to revolutionize how we do most of the things.

The IoT exists right now consisting of around 25 billion devices and this is said to triple by year 2025 and shall continue grow thereafter.

Applications The various uses and application of 5G communications or power of 5G can be stated to be as under – 1. High Speed Mobile Network 2. Entertainment and Multimedia 3. IoT (Internet of Things) 4. Smart Cities 5. Smart Farming 6. Telemedicine Services 7. Controlling of critical infrastructures and vehicles 8. Industrial applications In theory 5G can offer 10 to 100 times the speed of 4G. This is because 5G uses higher frequency waves than 4G or 3G which are less crowded with other devices. This allows more devices to have access to the internet at the same time and at faster speeds.

Also, unlike 4G towers, which project signals in 360 degrees, 5G antennas are very directional. This again leads to lower interference with other signals that are present in the area. 5G also offers lower

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latency rates. With 5G we can expect to see close to real-time responses between devices which are touted at 1-millisecond latency, whereas 4G stands at 50 milliseconds. 5G also has more bandwidth than 4G enabling us to connect more devices to a single internet port like a router.

5G is expected to offer enhanced mobile broadband that can meet high coverage requirements. 5G can diversify services and has potential to demonstrate spectral efficiency. High data speed of 5G network might help cloud systems to stream software updates, music and navigation data. In addition to this 5G will help to incorporate Artificial Intelligence in our daily lives. It will also facilitate the ecosystem for the Internet of Things (IoT).

A cumulative approach in technological advancement would lead to rise of GDP and growth of the economy. So, in a nutshell it can be summarized that the most prominent advantage of 5G over previous networks is the speed. The predicted 5G speed of up to 10 gigabits per

Another speed advantage of 5G is latency improvements. 5G latency will be around or less than one millisecond which is quicker than human visual processing. This makes it possible to control devices remotely in near real time while communications, manufacturing and logistics will all reap the rewards of lower latency. Gamers will also benefit greatly from the 5G rollout. The combination of high speed connections and minimal lag is the perfect recipe for virtual and augmented reality applications. Industries that use these technologies are due to explode in popularity as connectivity improvements make the experiences more seamless and immersive.

The connection speed that 5G brings to the table is incredibly exciting but a huge aspect of 5G that is barely spoken about is capacity. 5G will deliver upto 1000 times more capacity than 4G which basically means more room for connected devices and users. This combination of capacity and speed will greatly improve bandwidth which is the maximum data transfer rate of a network.

5G can transmit amounts of data that would be inconceivable on 4G LTE al-

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ARTICLE lowing for perfect connectivity speeds even on crowded networks. People have always struggled with connectivity in busy places such as stadiums and festivals. But, 5G will be able to handle the demand with any problem. Businesses also struggle with huge amounts of data that can flood in from customers and suppliers forcing them to turn away potentially useful information. 5G will facilitate a large influx of data at any given time giving businesses the opportunity to turn previously untapped volumes of data into actionable market knowledge.

Wireless companies and even government agencies such as CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) and the United States Environmental Protection Agency believe that radio waves produced by 5G are safe.

So, it can be summarized that for the time being 5G seems safe but there is not enough data to substantiate the studies and reach on any conclusion. Hence, it would be wise to say that before we make our homes, businesses and cities smart it’s important to make smart decisions when adopting new technology.

cells and cause cancer. However, more than 215 scientists from 40 different countries have appealed to the United Nations for urgent action to reduce the electromagnetic field exposure emitted from wireless sources even if they are nonionizing. These scientists also submitted a letter to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) asking the body to consider health risks and environmental issues before rapidly deploying a 5th generation wireless infrastructure.

5G in India

Major Challenges It seems like the projected speed of 5G telecommunications is difficult to achieve considering the incompetent technological support in most parts of the world. Many of the old devices would require to be replaced as they won’t support 5G. In developing countries like India there would be a huge challenge in terms of swift upsurge in mobile broadband consumption and the subsequent network congestion. The switch from 4G to 5G will be infrastructure intensive and development of infrastructure for 5G is very expensive. 5G cannot take off without basic infrastructure foundation, such as standard servers, open application programming interface (APIs) etc.

Safety concerns of 5G Communications There arises a prominent question that is 5G safe for humans and our environment?

The issues with 5G arises as a result of its extremely high frequency which lies between 30 GHZ to 300GHZ. Due to the higher frequencies the waves do not travel vast distances. Hence, antennas must be erected closer to each other to provide clear 5G reception. Since, the number of antennas installed is exponentially high hence, a chance of posing a health and environment risks is often debated.

5G networks use microwave and millimetre wavelength radiations which are considered non-ionizing and don’t produce the kind of energy that directly damages cells. It is ionizing form of the radiation that is considered harmful. The energy from ionizing radiation can pull apart atoms and as such it’s known to damage

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Few other countries also showed concerns towards use of 5G telecommunications.

The Belgian government halted a 5G test in Brussels over concerns about the radiations from the base stations. Members of Parliament in the Netherlands called on the government to further examine 5G while Switzerland is studying and monitoring 5G’s impact on people.

The study and analysis states that although 5G does not have ionizing radiation some experts suspect that the radiation from these devices could damage cells via oxidative stress in cells. This biological mechanism leads to inflammation and has been found to cause cancer, diabetes and other diseases.

The 5G services in India is expected to rolled out by early 2022 or by the end of calendar year 2021. It’s worth mentioning that 2G was deployed globally in 1991 but was deployed in India in 1995. 3G was launched in India in 2008, ten years later to the global launch of the 3G telecommunication services in 1998. 4G services were launched in India after 07 years of its global launching in 2008; i,e in 2015. Hence, it is expected that government of India would allow 4G services to continue for at least another 5-6 years before launching the 5G services.

However, the telecom giants in India Jio and Airtel have officially announced the launch of 5G services later this year in the country.

It’s interesting to note that India will have 350 million 5G subscriptions by 2026 which would account for nearly 27 percent of all mobile subscriptions globally. It is expected that four out of every ten mobile subscriptions in India in 2026 will be a 5G. Hence, from a consumer perspective in India, there is a high interest for 5G and more importantly the consumers are willing to pay for the new capabilities that 5G would offer.

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ARTICLE It’s important to mention that the trial run of 5G services on a small scale has already been done in India by Ericsson.

In partnership with Airtel, Ericsson enabled the first ever 5G powered ‘Connected Music’ performance during the inauguration of the India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2019. Airtel has also announced that it became country’s first telco to successfully demonstrate and orchestrate live 5G services over a commercial network in Hyderabad in partnership with Ericsson. It should also be noted that Ericsson Radio system hardware deployed in India since 2015 has been 5G ready and it can enable operators to upgrade to 5G with a remote software installation. The spectrum allocation for 5G services in India is already on progress and the actual 5G roll out in the country would depend on the pattern of spectrum allocation by Indian government and plans of Indian operators.

Use of 5G technology in Railways The 5G (Fifth-generation) wireless communications will revolutionise telecommunications on a number of aspects. For the railways, 5G will be the major component of FRMCS (Future Railway Mobile Communication System). The FRMCS is intended to replace the present Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM-R) and is intended as the single global standard for railway communications across the globe. The GSM-R is going to be terminated by 2030. It’s important to note that 5G is also acts as the catalyst for Automatic Train Operations (ATO).

The fifth generation telecommunications promises to shape the future of railways by offering ultra-low latency and ultrahigh reliability. The Global System of Mobile Communications (GSM-R) introduced in 2000 is presently used in 38 countries worldwide. The technology since its introduction gained popularity particularly due to its ability to transport data and multimedia information. But the technology is expected to become obsolete by 2030 as the new technology FRMCS would utilize 5G mobile services and will have the ability to transmit, receive and use increasing volumes of data, all geared around sustainable transport.

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The International Union of Railways (UIC) sees FRMCS as the key element to support the digitisation of railways across the globe. The cellular services on the other side shall continue maintain their role in connecting the train to the wayside.

The Future Railway Mobile Communication System, technology is currently being finalised and is due for its first trials in 2023. The wider migration of the service is targeted between 2025 and 2035.

Experts say that 5G would play a central role in transformation of railways featuring its super fast speeds, ultra low latency and multiple simultaneous connections via Massive Mimo. With the technical scope to deliver a range of efficiency, cost effectiveness, productivity and security benefits, 5G telecommunication services core attributes provide the gateway to IoT sensor technologies, CCTV, high-definition video, machine-tomachine communications and advanced train control systems. It is due to these attributes that the International Union of Railways (UIC) and the European Union Agency for Railways (ERA) indicate a preference for 5G as the technology underpinning FRMCS. Few Examples The German Rail (DB) is working towards development of world’s first standalone 5G system for automatic train operation in Hamburg as part of the DB’s highly automated S-Bahn operation project.

The project would also ascertain shunting of empty trains in railway Yard and shed based on the transmission of train control information over the 5G network apart from automatic operation of the trains.

The French National Railways (SNCF) is creating a 5G lab for railways that would explore a range of rail and nonrail use cases which would further help in facilitating 5G adoption and prepare for the transition to FRMCS.

such as improving the capacity of its existing track.

In India the 5G telecommunication services is intended to improve the signalling and security systems in railways. Use of CCTV cameras, automatic signalling system, sophisticated track management, automated train operations are priority areas of the Indian to modernise railways in India.

The government has plans to build and modernise 8000 railway stations using Wi-Fi and ultra modern techniques.

The Indian government is already working on High Speed Rail Corridor (HSRC), Urban Rapid Transit System and Metros. The investment in these modern techniques of Urban and railway is intended to use the advanced 5G telecommunications.

The Railways in India is working towards its modernisation to give passenger and freight transportation a different level.

The use 5G technology would help Indian Railways to keep its passengers connected all the times. The use of 5G services would also provide a quantum leap forward in infotainment services such as multimedia passenger information systems and streaming services. The technology will also allow passengers to use app that integrate onboard video content that provides real-time situational awareness.

Hence, in totality it can be said that the use of 5G will be of huge benefit to the railways across the globe. Not only it will provide smartphone users with faster and more reliable connectivity on trains, but it will also help the transformation of the infrastructure that will support future generational developments too.

•••

The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) is carrying out LTE 1900MHz Time Division Duplex (TDD) radio frequency testing in few of its stations towards its SmartRail 4.0 initiative using 5G through FRMCS. The FRMCS is expected to deliver new levels of productivity and service efficiency,

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ARTICLE

Power of Big Data and Data Analytics

B

ig data analytics examines large and different types of data to uncover hidden patterns, correlations and other insights.

So, big data analytics basically helps large companies to facilitate their growth and development. So this majorly involves applying various data mining algorithms on a given set of data which will then aid these organisations in making better decisions.

Big Data mostly is a buzzword used to describe a massive volume of both structured and unstructured data which is very large and complex to process using traditional data base and software technique.

• What are the different kind of tools which are required for big data analytics • What are the various domains and cases of big data analytics • What are the different trends which are prevalent in the field of big data analytics.

Why big analytics

data

Where does big data come from ?

There are mainly two sources of big data – • Machine (Computer) Generated – Machine generated data includes Application Server Logs (websites, games, internet) Sensor data – (weather, atmospheric science, astronomy, smart grids) Images/ Videos (traffic, security cameras, military surveillance) • Human Generated – Human generated data includes Blogs/ Reviews/ Emails/ Pictures/ Scientific Research / Medical Records • Social Graphs – Facebook, Linked-In, Contacts, Twitter A variety of enormous data is being generated at an extremely fast pace in various sectors. Therefore, analysing big data has become extremely crucial and inevitable. Big data analytics is being adopted throughout the globe in order to gain numerous benefits from the data being produced.

So, few questions arises – • As why we need big data analytics and why it has become so important • What exactly is big data analytics

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Big Data Analytics has become an important and relevant topic these days. As more and more number of organisation, firm and institutions are using big data analytics these days so it becomes worth knowing that what makes big data analytics so important?

The universe is said to have formed due the big bang explosion. Similarly data has also been growing exponentially which is leading to the explosion of data.

This explosion of data simply can be termed as big data. It is estimate that we are creating about 2.5 quintillion bytes of data every day. One quintillion amounts to around 10 raised to the power of 18 bytes. So it can be imagined that what amount of data that we are creating every day and this data comes from various sources whether it is from social media from banking sectors from governments from various other institutions.

And this data is not in the same format.

It comes various sources so it is in different formats. Therefore, it can be said that big data is not only limited to the volume or the enormous amount that is being generated but it relates to certain characteristics which exhibit as its

peculiar properties.

We can state five different characteristic of big data – • Volume – Volume is nothing but the huge amount of data that is being generated or the enormous amount of data being generated from various sectors like social media, banking sector, government departments etc.

• Variety - Variety is different formats of data coming in from various sources. So big data has three different formats. One is structured order. A Semi-structured order and then an unstructured order.

• Structured Data – Structured data is in the form of relational databases which comes in the form of tables which has rows and columns.

• Unstructured Data – Unstructured data is usually in the form of Audio files, video files, images etc.

• Semi-structured Data – Semi-

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ARTICLE structure data is in the form of JSON and XML files. So these are the basic formats and variety of data.

organisations – Big Data and Analytics is making significant contribution in making organisations work smarter and with greater efficiency. Organisations are adopting big data and analytics to help them take faster decisions.

For example the crime department these days are taking help of big data analytics to anticipate and identify the criminal activity before it occurs. The process here involves analysing the entire big data technology to geolocate and analyse the historical patterns. The historical pattern then is mapped with sporting events, pea days, rainfalls, traffic flows and holidays etc. So, essentially what the crime department does is, it utilizes the data patterns, scientific analysis, technological tools to make their work easy and take faster and scientific decisions. Hence, by using big data and analytics the crime department these days are able to identify crime hotspots and take appropriate decisions accordingly.

• Value – Value can be defined as deriving meaningful data from this entire collection of big data.

• Velocity – Velocity is the rate or speed at which the data is being generated.

• Veracity – Veracity is the inconsistencies and the uncertainties which are present in the data.

These five V’s of big data which keeps evolving as and when the data changes or grows over a period of time.

Need for Big Data Analytics A basic question arises that why is there a need for Big Data Analytics? Why it is so important and how it helping a number of organisations all around the globe these days?

The various reasons can be stated as under: • Making smarter and more efficient

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• Optimize Business Operations by analysing customer behaviour – Amazon can be cited as the best example for optimizing business operations by analysing customer behaviour. So, what Amazon does is, it uses the clickstream data of its customers. So Amazon uses our clickstream data and historical purchase data of more than 300 million customers who have signed up with Amazon. The company then analyzes each and every user’s data viz; How the user are clicking on different products, How are they navigating through the site and other behavioural patterns. So, basically they show each user customized results on customized web pages. So, after analysing all these clicks of every visitor on their website they are able to better understand their site navigation behaviour, the paths that people are taking to buying their products and service and what else a customer looked on while buying that product and also the paths that led a customer to leave their page so this information basically helps Amazon to improve their customer experience and hence expand their customer base.

• Cost Reduction – Big data technologies like Hadoop and cloud-based analytics reduces the cost significantly for storage of big data because if one purchases

huge servers, stores and machinery for storing big data then it costs a lot. While by using Big Data technologies like Hadoop the cost is reduced significantly.

What Hadoop generally does is, it stores big data in a distributed fashion so that a user can process it parallel. So, by using commodity hardware the cost is curtailed to a significant extent. The healthcare departments can be cited as an example which is using big data analytics to curb their costs. By using new data tools that sync automatic alerts when patients are due for their immunization or lab work is helping doctors and physicians to reduce the hospitalizations which ultimately helps in reducing the costs. The patients these days have started using the new sensor devices at their homes. These new sensor devices deliver constant streams of data that can be monitored and analysed in real time so they help the patients avoid hospitalizations by self managing their conditions.

Again for hospitalized patients physicians can use predictive analytics to optimize outcomes and then reduce the readmissions. So, by using big data analytics the healthcare along with the patients are able to reduce their cost significantly.

• Next Generation Products – Big data analytics is making significant contribution in generation of greater number of high tech products. These high tech products are basically designed to see that how customers needs can be satisfied and how these new generation products can be used for the benefit of customers.

Few examples can be cited as an explanation. Google Self Driving Car is one of the technologies that is increasingly popular these days. What Google Self Driving Car does is, it makes millions of calculations on every trip that helps the car decide when and where to turn, whether to slow down or speed up and when to change lanes. So, the same decision a human driver is making behind the wheel and Google Self Driving Car is also doing that with the help of Big Data Analytics. Another example of a self driving car is the Toyota Prius which is fitted with cameras, GPS, powerful computers and sensors to safely drive on the road without the intervention of human beings. So, this is how big data analytics is contributing in making such

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ARTICLE high tech products which in the long run would make our life easier.

Netflix is another example. The channel launched the season of its TV show House of Cards based on the user reviews, ratings and viewership. The House of Cards for two seasons costed Netflix about 100 million dollars. Netflix committed House of Cards without watching a single episode. The streaming service was able to take such a big risk monetarily based on big data analytics. By analysing the viewer data the company was able to determine that the fans of the original house of cards which aired in the UK. So, basically Netfilx analysed everything. Which show its viewers watched and liked the most, when did they pause or turn off. Each and every analysis was done by Netflix and on the basis of those analysis Netflix was able to raise its subscribers by 10 percent annually.

A smart Yoga Mat is another popular example in this section. In a smart yoga mat there are sensors embedded in the mat which is capable of providing feedback on the yoga practitioner’s postures. It also guides the practitioner through an at home practice and scores the practice as well. So, when a practitioner takes his first move on the yoga mat, it takes the practitioner through a series of movements to calibrate his body shape, size and personal limitation. This personal profile of the practitioner is then stored in the smart mat app which helps smart mat detect when a practitioner is out of alignment or balance. So, over a period of time the smart mat will automatically evolve with updated data as the practitioner improves his yoga practice.

problem identified so designing data requirements is the second step of the process.

• Pre- Processing Data – Pre-processing stage is basically the step where data cleaning and some sort of processing is done.

• Performing analytics over Data – After the processing is done the process data is analysed in this stage using various methods.

• Visualising Data – This is the final stage of the big data analytics in which we visualize the data using tools like tab below, angularjs.

Types of Big Data Analytics There are four basic types of Big Data Analytics –

• Identifying Problem – What is the problem that is required to be solved is the most important and initial step involved in various stages of Big Data Analytics.

• Descriptive Analytics – Descriptive Analytics generally answers ‘What has happened’. It does by using data aggregation in data mining technique to provide insight into the past and then it answers what is happening now based on the incoming data. So, as the name suggests Descriptive Analytics describes or it summarizes the raw data and it makes it something which is interpretable by humans. e.g Google Analytics Tool.

Netflix.

• Designing Data Requirement – After identifying the problem it is require to be decided that what kind of data is required for analysing the particular

• Predictive Analysis – Predictive Analytics basically uses statistical models and focus techniques to understand the future and answer the question ‘what

Stages in Big Data Analytics The various stages that are involved in this procedure of epic data analytics are as under –

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could happen’. So, Predictive Analytics predicts and we are able to understand through predictive analytics that what are the probable future outcomes. It therefore provides companies with actionable insights based on the data.

So, through sensors and other machine generated data companies can identify when a malfunction is likely to occur.

Hence, the company can pre-emptively order parts and make repairs etc. to avoid downtime and losses. Aviation Industry is the example using and relying on this type of analytics.

• Prescriptive Analysis – Prescriptive Analytics uses optimization and

simulation algorithms to advise on the possible outcomes and answer the question ‘What should be done’. It generally allows the users to prescribe a number of different possible actions and then guide them towards a solution. So, prescriptive analytics in a nutshell can be stated to be the type which provides advice regarding a product or a service. e.g Google Self Driving Car • Diagnostic Analysis – Diagnostic Analytics is used to determine the question ‘Why something happened in the past’. It is characterized by techniques like drill down, data discovery, data mining and correlations. Diagnostic analytics takes a deeper look at the data to understand the root cause of the event. It is helpful in data mining what kind of factors and events contributed to a particular outcome so mostly it uses probabilities,

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ARTICLE likelihoods and the distribution of data for the analysis. So, for example in a time series data of sales the diagnostic analytics shall help us to understand why the sales of a company has decreased or increased for a particular year and so on. Examples of diagnostic analytics can be a social media marketing campaign.

Hence, diagnostic analytics can be used to assess the number of posts, mentions, followers, fans, pageviews, reviews etc. It helps to analyse the failure and success of the campaign at the fundamental level.

Tools used in Big data Analytics Some of the common tools used for big data analytics are – • Hadoop • Apache Pick • Apache HBase • Apache Spark • Talend • Splunk • Hive • Kafka Big Data Analytics revolutionizing various Domains Below listed are some of the domains which are increasingly using the big data analytics – • Healthcare – Healthcare sector is using Big Data Analytics to reduce costs, predict epidemics, avoid preventable diseases and then improve the quality of life in general. One of the most widespread application of big data in health care is Electronic Health Records (EHRs).

Telecom – Telecom Industry is one of the most significant contributors of Big Data. It basically analyses all our call data records in real time and then it identifies fraudulent behaviour and acts on them immediately.

• Insurance – Insurance companies use Big Data Analytics for Risk assessment, fraud detection, marketing, customer insights, customer experiences and much more.

• Government – Governments across

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the world are also adopting the big data analytics. Indian Government for example used big data analytics to get an estimate of the trade in the country so the economists use central sales tax and voices for trade between two states to estimate the extent to which the states were trading between each other.

• Finance – Banks and Financial services use analytics to differentiate fraudulent interactions from legitimate business transactions. So, by applying analytics and machine learning bank and financial institutions are able to define the normal activity of a user or a customer based on their history and then distinguish it from the unusual behaviour indicating fraud.

On the basis of which immediate actions like blocking the irregular transactions etc. is taken.

• Automobile – Many automobile companies are utilizing big data analytics.

A prominent example is Rolls Royce.

Rolls Royce embrace big data by fitting hundreds of sensors ito its engines and propulsion systems and these sensors basically recall every tiny detail about the operation of the engines and propulsion systems. Any change in data in the realtime is reported to the engineers who then take needful actions.

• Education – Big data analytics is being adopted very slowly and gradually in education field. But it is very necessary that big data analytics is utilized in this field because it would help both teachers and students.

• Retail – Retail includes both ecommerce and in stores and it is widely using big data analytics to optimize its business strategies.

Future & Market of Big Data Analysis Some of the successful case studies of Big Data Analytics are that of Starbucks, Procter & Gamble. Both P&G and Starbucks used big data analytics for optimizing their products and cater to their customers more effectively and efficiently. Hence, it could be summarized that big data analytics would be the future of business and trade across the globe.

increase their sales and marketing. Big Data Analytics has a whopping growing market revenue. The market revenue of big data is expected to grow by 103 billion U.S dollars by 2027 from present 42 billion U.S Dollars.

Recent facts and statistics by Forbes and McKinsey analytic survey state that analytics and big data have fundamentally changed business practices in their sales and marketing functions. The enterprise executives across the globe also agree that companies that does not embrace big data in near future will lose their competitive position and could face extinction. These facts reveal that how important big data and analytics is and how it is going to change the face of the world.

Scope of Big Data Analysis in India Internet of Things (IoT) and Big Data shall play a crucial role in paving the next level of growth in India. The Indian Economy is going through a sea of transformational changes in terms of technology and its adoption. Projects like Digital India, e-governance, smart cities and several other initiatives are destined to make India a technology centric economy.

Hence, the big data analytics shall play a crucial and determining roe in growth and development of the nation. The big data market in India is expected to grow at a CAGR of 26 percent reaching approximately 16 billion U.S dollars by 2025 from present 02 billion U.S dollars.

India’s growth in terms of data analytics would also be significant as the fourth largest economy of the world presently would contribute to 32 percent share of the global market of big data analytics by 2025. The IoT market in India shows a similar growth trajectory and is forecasted to reach 25 Billion U.S dollars by 2022 accounting for roughly 6 percent of the global market. India is currently among the top 10 countries in Big Data Analytics market and already has around 1000 data analytics firms which is witnessing a significant rise and is expected to grow exponentially in future.

•••

The use of data analytics in proficient manner would help the companies

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WHITE PAPER

ERTMS/ETCS

European Rail Traffic Management SystemEuropean Train Control System

Advantages of ETCS • Increased line capacity by reducing headway up to 40%

Er. Mahesh C. Yadav

• Higher speed up to 500 KMPH

IRSSE, C.Eng(I),MIE(I),MIET(UK) ,MIRSTE,MIRT,MIUT,MIMA

• Higher reliability

ERTMS(European Rail Traffic management system )

• Improved safety • Low production cost

The European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) is the system of standards for management and interoperation of Signaling for Railways by the European Union (EU). It is conducted by the European Union Agency for Railways (ERA) and is the organizational umbrella for the separately managed parts of

• Low installation cost

GSM–R (communication),

Level 0 applies when an ETCS-fitted vehicle is used on a NonETCS route. The train borne equipment monitors the maximum speed of that type of train. The train driver observes the trackside signals. Since signals can have different meanings on different railways, this level places additional requirements on drivers’ training. If the train has left a higher-level ETCS, it might be limited in speed globally by the last balises encountered.

European Train Control System (ETCS, signaling), European Train Management Layer (ETML)

• Reduced maintenance cost

ETCS Level 0

ETCS (European Train control system)

ETCS Level 1

The European Train Control System (ETCS) is the signaling and control component of the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS). It is a replacement for legacy Train Protection Systems and designed to replace the many incompatible safety systems being used by European Railways.

• Features

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• Displaying permitted, actual, and target speeds and movement authority to the driver through a graphical alphanumeric and analogue display with both audible and visual alarms.

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WHITE PAPER • ATP(Automatic Train Protection) information through Eurobalises and Euroloop • Computer-based interlocking • Track train detection by track circuits or axle counters • Point machines controlled by interlockings • Light conventional or LED signals • Screen control room that handles train supervision

• CAB Signaling • Movement Authorities through GSM-R.Train Position via Eurobalise.

ETCS LEVEL-2 • Features

ETCS Level1

• Displaying permitted, actual and target speeds and movement authority to the driver through a graphical alphanumeric and analogue display with both audible and visual alarms • The system supports Automatic Train Operation (ATO) • ATP information through radio block Centre • Radio block Centre • computer-based interlocking • Track train detection by track circuits or axle counters • Switch point machines controlled by interlockings • Screen control room handles train supervision

ETCS Level-3

• (Eurobalise + infill (euroloop, radio, or extra balises)

• Eurobalise + Euroradio (GSM-R) + Radio Block Center

ETCS LEVEL-2 • Eurobalise + Euroradio (GSM-R) + Radio Block Center • No more Trackside Signals Required.

• Movement Authorities through GSM-R.Authorities through Eurobalise.

• Train Position via Eurobalise.

• Train Integrity Onboard.

• Moving Block.

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WHITE PAPER ETCS LEVELS AT A GLANCE

ETCS Level-3

a) ETC LEVEL-1

• Features • displaying permitted, actual, and target speeds and movement authority to the driver through a graphical alphanumeric and analogue display with both audible and visual alarm

b) ETCS LEVEL2

c) ETCS LEVEL3

RADIO BASED COMMUNICATION FOR TRAIN CONTROL SYSTEM

• The system supports Automatic Train Operation (ATO) • ATP information through Radio block Centre • Radio Block Centre • Computer-based interlocking • Point machines controlled by interlockings • Screen control room handles train supervision • No wayside train detection equipment required • No optical signals required • Moving block concept allows trains to operate safely with optimum headways and improves fuel efficiency

COMPONENTS OF ETCS

Major suppliers of ERTMS • Alstom • Siemens • Ansaldo • AZD Praha • Bombardier • Invensys • Mermec • Thales

THANKS Er Mahesh C Yadav 9650799195 mcyrail@gmail.com

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•••

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FOCUS SYSTEM

Safety and Security in Metro Rail Projects Abstract Indian Railways (IR) owns and manages one of the world’s largest Railway networks with over 64,000 Route Kilometers (Km) and over 7,000 stations. Operations of the Indian Railways are monitored and overseen by the Ministry of Railways (MOR), Government of India and 16 Zonal Railways headed by General Managers. The IR carries more than 17.5 million passengers every day, and some of the major Railway stations handle 100200 million passengers per annum.

Almost all the railway stations are located in the middle of the cities under IR, which offers enormous potential for redevelopment and commercial expansion with passengers’ travel option in an enormous volume. New passenger terminals are also being developed in cities where existing terminals cannot meet future demand.

Metro Rail Services – An Introduction There exist nearly 200 operational metro rail systems (MRS) worldwide. The International Association of Public Transport defines an MRS as an urban electric transport system with high capacity and service frequency. Also, an MRS is independent of

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other traffic, road or pedestrian. According to the World Metro Database, more than 150 MRS are either at the planning stage or already under construction across the globe. In particular, like China and India, emerging economies are rapidly building urban metro rail systems in their growing cities to decongest road traffic and provide more environmentally friendly means of transport to their communities.

A recent study by the Association of the European Rail Industry found that the global market for metro rail infrastructure

and equipment has been growing at a rate of 3.2% per year through the global downturn (2008–2010), and is set to continue its growth at a rate of about 2.7% per year until 2017 and around 2.5% annually till 2025, especially in 3rd world or underdeveloped and developing economies.

In the design of a metro system, the emphasis is placed upon facilitating the movement of passengers. Owing to their functionality, metro rail projects were conceived as ‘open architecture’ systems, and little attention was paid to security. Past incidents have shown that MRS provide suitable environments to passengers and offenders, such as pickpockets and sexual offenders. However, one of the major concerns is that Metros are notorious target sites for terrorists seeking to

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FOCUS SYSTEM create mass panic, disrupt the daily life of a city, adversely affect transport infrastructure for several days and cause a significant symbolic impact. This was evidenced by the recent series of bombings against Madrid’s Cercanias commuter train system in 2004, London Underground in 2007, Mumbai suburban rail network in 2008 and Moscow Metro in 2010.

Metro in India Metro Services in India was first started in Calcutta in 1984. The beginning of metro services in the city of Joy – Calcutta marked a new transportation mode in the country. The then Calcutta is known as Kolkata today. The first metro train in Calcutta on a 3.4 km track was started between Bawanipur (known as Netaji Bhawan today) and Esplanade. This was an underground metro system. Gradually this route was expanded. Presently, Kolkata has a total operational metro route of 33.02 km. Apart from these, a no. of routes are under construction or proposed.

time by 50-75% compared to road or bus transportation.

Therefore, it is evident from the above information that metro services today have become one of the most reliable, safe, cheaper, efficient and popular mode of transportation for urban commuters. The only drawback of the Metro Rail System can be stated to be its availability in urban areas.

Since metro service is a modern transportation system and requires huge infrastructure, modern equipments and technological input must be developed. Hence, the Metro network is developed in Urban areas only.

However, seeing the pace of metro development and its increasing popularity, metro services are expected to be developed in semi and sub-urban areas.

In the year 2002, the second metro services in India was started in New Delhi. The first metro in Delhi was run between Shahdara and Tees Hazari with a total length of 8.5 kms. After that, Delhi never Today, Delhi Metro is the largest metro service in the country, with a total operation length of 389 kms.

Metro services in India are developing at a rapid rate. Presently, it is available in 18 cities of the country on a total operational track of nearly a thousand kms. By 2025, metro services in India are expected to be operational in 25 cities with a total running track of 1700 kms.

Characteristics of Metro Rail Services Metro Rail System (MRS) has emerged as one of the most popular transportation system in public domain. There are several characteristics of metro rail network stated as under: • Metro train system has proven to be most efficient in terms of energy consumption, space occupancy and numbers transported.

• Metro trains are known for their high transportation capability.

Metro trains are high capacity carriers. It can carry a very high volume of passengers in peak hour, peak direction trips.

• These are eco-friendly transportation system, which causes no air pollution and much lesser sound pollution.

• MRS (Metro Rail System) is known for low energy consumption.

Compared to a road-based system, the energy consumption is 20% lower per passenger over a kilometre distance.

• It has a relatively higher traffic capacity. It carries as much traffic as seven lanes of bus traffic or 24 lanes of car traffic on either way.

• Metro trains are known for very low ground space occupation.

It requires a width of 2 meters only for an elevated rail.

• It is a faster mode of transportation. Reduces transportation

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Planning of Metro Services The planning of metro (rapid transit) networks is usually predominantly empirical. Consideration of local conditions, such as demand characteristics, transportation corridors, and requirements for certain station locations, are some of the prerequisites that need to be kept in mind before the development of Metro Rail Network non-existent area.

It’s also worth mentioning that because of the high cost of metro construction and the permanence of its facilities, it is important to design optimal networks with respect to service for passengers, the efficiency of operation, and the metro system’s relationship to the city. This is a complex task, and it deserves more attention than it has received until now. An attempt is made in this study to provide materials that may assist in the planning and design of metro system networks, lines, and stations.

The development of a Metro Rail Network or System is in three different phases • Establishment Phase • Development Phase • Running Phase

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FOCUS SYSTEM • Expansion Phase

• Number of lines and their lengths

The Establishment phase is the preliminary or initial phase in which the requirement, scope, availability and operational prospect of metro services in a non-existent area are ascertained.

Factors like traffic in the area, need for an alternative mode of transportation, availability or crowd of passengers, safety requirements (safety and ease of women passengers) are considered. After due scrutiny and evaluation of the need for the metro services in the area, the second phase of the metro network is initiated. The infrastructure for running the metro is developed.

Safety and Security in Metro Rail Networks

Development of stations, metro rail network, all infrastructural requirements such as signalling, coaches, depots etc., are developed in this phase so that metro transportation can be made operational. The last stage of Metro services development is the passenger movement and transportation with comfort, ease and safety.

Metros are meant for passenger transportation only; hence, the running phase of the metro is the final phase of the Metro services in a city or area where metros become fully functional and operational.

The fourth stage, i.e., Metro rail Network’s expansion state in a city or town, is basically optional. This is where metro services are expanded after their initial runs on a smaller area or track. Metros require a huge investment. It needs high technical inputs too. Hence, metro services are expanded gradually. After trail or successful runs, the metro services are brought into an expansion phase, and an additional metro rail network is developed.

However, certain elements help decide the size and form of a metro network in an area : • The population of the served area.

• The surface of the served area • Vehicle-km operated every day • Vehicle or car capacity • Vehicles per train (transit unit TU) • Operating Speed • Frequency of Service • Number of metro passengers per day • Number of passengers per year • Average Trip Length • Number of total transit passengers per day • Number of stations on the network • Number of stations with park-and-ride • Schematic map of network with stations

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Like all the infrastructures, Metro Rail Network also require a high degree of safety and security to ensure its operation and provide the passengers with a safe and reliable commuting option.

Metro today is considered the safest transportation option, especially for the vulnerable class of the society i,e; Women passengers who travel alone. These women are usually at a high risk of physical abuse, molestation, and physical assault due to their travel in a crowded, unorganised, and busy area of a town, city, urban, or suburban area.

Metro travel ensures the safety and security of every passenger.

The commuters right from their entry in the metro terminal to the exit point feel safe and secured where numerous surveillance cameras guard them.

CCTVs, barricading, multiple checks ensure ruling out any chaos or disorder.

The alert security personnel, marshall and volunteers keep a check on unfavoured or scrupulous entry or escape.

The safety and security in the metro rail network is a broader concept and requires an in-depth evaluation. The safety concern in the metro rail system (MRS) is a major observation and requirement in all the phases (viz; Establishment, Development, running and extension) of the metro transportation development.

The major safety and security concern in the pre-running stage are as under : Safety Management Measures: For a proper system to develop, project authority establishes safety programmes following rules, regulations, and guidelines before the construction.

These would help to avoid and reduce the number of accidents.

Labour Camp: Labour camps with adequate health care facilities, sanitation facilities, shelter at the workplace, canteen facilities, first aid facilities, preventive measures from infectious diseases like HIV/AIDS, day crèche are a few of the requisites under safety and security of metro rail networks which ensures proper development of the infrastructural requirement of the metro rail network.

Energy Management: Metro Rail Network is an energy-efficient transportation system. The energy management measures include the conservation of energy at construction sites. The use of energy-efficient motors and pumps, energy-efficient

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FOCUS SYSTEM lighting, energy-efficient luminaires, adequate and uniform illumination level suitable for the task, and energy-efficient air conditioner are some of the steps taken to conserve energy at work stations and construction sites.

covered lorries are some of the measures that are taken into consideration to reduce the air pollution during construction.

Hazardous Waste Management: The disposal of hazardous waste is taken into concern so that there is no harm to the ecosystem.

Noise Control Measures: The noise generated during construction is minimised by using silent DG sets, acoustic enclosures, temporary noise barriers, job rotation to the extent possible for construction workers, and scheduling of truck loading, unloading and hauling operation.

Environmental Safeguard: Environment sanitation is also carried out at work site, construction depot, labour camp, stores, offices, toilets/urinals etc.

Vibration Control Measures: Measures are taken to minimise the vibration impact by continuous vibration monitoring during construction, periodic vibration during operation,

Utility: Utilities like sewers, water mains, stormwater drains, telephone cables, electrical transmission lines are also

Vibration monitoring at site and at the top of the building mainly for old structures and heritage buildings, pre-construction structural integrity inspections of historic and sensitive structures.

Traffic Diversion/ Management: The traffic at some station locations during construction is usually diverted to avoid congestion. The traffic management plan includes advance traffic information on communication systems and partial blocking of the road etc.

Disaster management plan Disaster can occur due to subsidence, accidents, fire hazards, etc., during construction wile system failure (power supply, break down etc.), fire hazards and accidents during the operation stage.

Hence, preventive action, a full-proof communication system, an emergency action committee and emergency measures are taken to avoid any incident as such.

maintained in working order during different construction stages.

Historical & Cultural Monuments: Before the initiation of construction, the metro development authority or construction company conducts a condition survey of important historical structures in the vicinity of alignment to identify the structures’ impact during the project’s construction and operation. If there’s any structure of importance, then there’s usually an adequate management plan to preserve the structures. A suitable amount or other options generally compensate it.

Air Pollution Control Measures: It is an important safety concern where air pollution control measures are considered.

During the construction period, the air quality tends to decline due to an increase in Particulate Matter (PM) and emission of construction vehicles and machinery. These add to huge carbon emissions.

However, during nonpeak hours, use of RMC and pre-cast panels, optimisation of construction machinery’s use, silent DG sets with the pollution control device, a sprinkling of water and

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Institutional framework The Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) is the nodal agency in the central government’s administrative structure for planning, promotions, co-ordination, and overseeing India’s environmental and forestry policies and programs. The primary responsibilities of MoEF include: • Environmental resource conservation and protection, including environmental impact assessment, clearance of developmental projects; • Co-ordination with the other ministries and agencies, voluntary organisations and professional bodies for environmental action plans; • Promotion of research and development, manpower planning and training and creation of environmental awareness; • Liaison and co-ordination with international agencies involved in environmental matters.

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FOCUS SYSTEM

is a need for special solutions for monitoring all areas.

A robust institutional framework ensures environment protection while taking consideration into technological development and modern means of transportation.

Safety and Security in Operational and Extension phase of MRS Public transportation plays an important role in people’s lives everywhere – and as populations age, this role will continue to grow. However, in recent years the transportation industry has become increasingly vulnerable to security risks. One of the greatest challenges is to protect train stations, where the rail industry faces a crucial need to guard passengers, employees, goods, infrastructure, and assets against possible threats.

These facilities, in particular, have become at least as vulnerable as airports. Therefore, they must meet very demanding criteria regarding security, safety, communications, and building automation to uphold their reputation as providers of safe, well-organised services that travellers and freight forwarders can rely on.

The security and safety risks at a train station can include vandalism and graffiti, theft, drug dealing, fire, and acts of terrorism. Managing them is challenging since many different areas need to be monitored: tracks, underground passageways, bicycle and car parking areas, buildings, luggage storage facilities, and parked railway cars and engines. The lack of access restrictions at most train stations also means that there

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Complete Integration of Security, Safety, Communication, and Facility Automation With all of the security, safety, communication and building automation systems installed in a train station, it is a challenge to manage and coordinate them all efficiently.

Building Management System The Building Integration System (BIS) is a modern technology that gives a 360 degrees surveillance of the entire building where all security-related activities are carried out. The BIS is a single Web-based cockpit for monitoring all security, safety, and building management systems. This includes alarm management, fast alarm pinpointing via location maps, and follow-up procedures. It also seamlessly integrates fire and intrusion alarms and evacuation, access control, CCTV, and building automation systems. The use of the Building Integration System lets a single operator monitor and control all security systems and enable faster responses to emergencies and greater overall effectiveness.

Major Components of a Building Management System of any Security Solution • Prevention of terrorism • Surveillance at various locations

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FOCUS SYSTEM • Access Control • Prevention of sabotage and vandalism • Fire prevention • Evacuations and announcements • Intrusion control • Prevention of accidents Prevention of Terrorism: Metro stations are vulnerable centres from a security point of view. Due to various outdoor and indoor facilities, many of which are accessible at all hours, it is a targeted point where terrorist and militant activities are accomplished for the maximum casualty.

To rule out acts of terrorism and vandalism, the security challenges include: • Preventing and responding to diverse acts of terrorism such as bombings, bomb threats, suicide attacks, and sabotage • Dealing with the fire and explosion risks associated with the on-site storage of flammable liquids • Identifying and checking abandoned bags • Access control for restricted areas • In dangerous situations, quickly getting people to safety in an organised way By using modern technological equipment, these challenges are faced to a considerable extent today. The various steps include : • Efficiently monitor all areas and activities to detect fires, emergencies, and threats immediately

and detectors are some of the modern-day tools which are increasingly helpful in surveillance, access control, prevention of sabotage and vandalism, fire prevention, evacuation and announcements. Intrusion control is also ensured using these systems.

Intelligent video analysis and virtual perimeter fencing is helping to reduce accidents and train collisions.

Safety and Security in Metro Rail Projects: Few Prominent Examples Sao Paulo. Brazil The South American metropolis, having a high incidence of violence, with the help of a sophisticated electronic monitoring solution, managed to increase the security of the three million passengers who ride it each day.

The CCTV system for the city’s five subway lines with 55 stations has 121 fixed and 17 dome cameras in a gigabit ring network, managed by 10 DiBOS digital video recorders and a BIS video engine. The video streams are monitored at a leadingedge security control centre equipped with six monitors and two plasma screens. State-of-the-art digital recording and communication technology lets staff quickly retrieve images and immediately take appropriate action to deal with critical situations.

The Channel Tunnel Between France and the U.K. The Channel Tunnel is the world’s longest underwater tunnel.

The tunnel poses an extreme environment due to its lowlight conditions, high-pressure air flows, high humidity, and salinity. But, the ultra-high-resolution cameras installed here in 2003 has enabled uninterrupted underground surveillance ever since. Extreme Series cameras capture images under the most challenging conditions, including corrosive or volatile atmospheres and vandal-prone areas.

• Detect potentially dangerous individuals before they can cause any trouble

The Subway of Munich, Germany

• Make public announcements to inform travellers of arriving and departing trains and, for example, remind them not to leave bags unattended

Munich’s subway system, Germany, has an efficient network proliferating CCTV surveillance cameras for easy central monitoring.

• Conduct fast, controlled evacuations

The Ladozhsky Rail Terminal in St. Petersberg, Russia

• Integrate all safety, security, and communications solutions in a building management system for central monitoring and control

Ladozhsky Rail Terminal is one of Russia’s largest train stations with the world’s first fully digital voice evacuation system with advanced functionalities such as a single optical cable for digital audio, control data distribution high-performance amplifiers with digital audio equalisation.

• Monitor all approaches to the station Meeting these challenges gives employees and passengers confidence in the safety of train stations and the railway system.

Similarly, by using CCTVs, Surveillance Cameras, Fire Alarm Systems, Intrusion Alarm system, Public Address and Voice Evacuation System, IP- based video surveillance system, Access control systems, IVA (Advanced Intelligence Video Analysis), Tracking cameras, Video Management System, High- quality public address and voice evacuation systems, fire panels

From the above data, it can be concluded that safety and security are some of the most important Metro Rail System factors (MRS). It helps in the accomplishment of Metro Rail Projects with ease and safety and ensures the same to its commuters after becoming operational.

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NEW DEVELOPMENT

Kerala CM inaugurates the first route of Water Metro project

C

hief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on February 16, 2021, has inaugurated the first route and terminal buildings of Kochi Water Metro, a project to connect the islands around the city using state-of-the-art boats.

The `747-crore Water Metro project of Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) would emulate Kochi Metro as yet another innovative and sustainable mode of urban commuting in Kochi, providing an eco-friendly and accessible transportation mode, especially for people living in 10 islands off the mainland, said Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, after inaugurating online the first route (Vyttila-Kakkanad) of the project on Monday.

Vyttila, one of the busiest traffic hubs in the city, to Kakkanad, the IT hub, was inaugurated by the Chief Minister through video-conferencing.

The twenty-three 100-passenger capacity, battery-powered, disabled-friendly AC ferries introduced in the project's first phase will boost the islands' tourism prospects. There will be zero reliance on fossil fuels. Sixteen of the total 38 terminals will be completed in Phase One, of which the Vyttila and Kakkanad terminals are ready. The terminals will have floating pontoons, thus enabling safe entry and exit of ferries, irrespective of high or low tide. After that, the ferries would be extended up to

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Infopark and Smart City, aimed mainly at IT professionals, the Chief Minister added.

The German development assistance agency KfW will provide a soft loan totalling `579 crores for the project, which is expected to lessen annual carbon emission in the Greater Kochi area by 16,500 tonnes. Electric autorickshaws and buses will operate feeder services to the ferries. Another batch of fifty-five 50-passenger capacity ferries will be launched in Phase Two of the project, which is claimed to be the first of its kind in Asia.

PM Modi inaugurates Kolkata Metro's Northsouth corridor from Noapara to Dakshineswar Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 22, 2021, inaugurated the Kolkata metro extension from Noapara to Dakshineswar on the North-South line.

Earlier, PM Modi had termed this project special and stated, "It has now become effortless for devotees to visit the Kali temples at Kalighat and Dakshineswar."

He flagged off the first train virtually from Noapara to Dakshineswar in the 4.1 km stretch of the north-south corridor,

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NEW DEVELOPMENT built at the cost of Rs 464 crores.

The stretch comprises two stations, namely Baranagar and Dakshineswar. The stations are aesthetically structured and decked with murals, photographs, sculptures and idols.

According to the Kolkata railway metro authorities, the stretch would assist approximately 50,000 commuters traveling to and from between the city and its adjoining districts of North 24 Parganas, Howrah and Hooghly daily.

PM Modi also paved the way for the third line between Kalaikunda and Jhargram. He attributed the nation for the doubling of Azimganj to the Khagraghat Road section, the fourth line between Dankuni andBaruipara and the third line between Rasulpur and Magra.

Union Railway Minister Piyush Goyal and Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar also attended the inaugural ceremony.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Phase-1 Chennai Metro extension from Washermenpet to Wimco Nagar on February 14, 2021. The picture was taken at Washermanpet underground Metro Station.

Shri Pradeep Yadav, Commissioner for Metro Railway Safety had completed the 3-days safety inspection of WashermenpetWimco Nagar stretch on February 8 2021 and given his node to open the stretch for the commercial run of metro services.

The 9.051 km long Washermanpet to Wimco Nagar section of Phase I extension has seven Metro Stations (2 Underground and 5 Elevated Metro Stations). This 9.05 km long WashermenpetWimco Nagar stretch will connect North Chennai with the airport and Central Railway Station. The AFC system developed and manufactured by Nippon Signal Co., Ltd. is used in this project. Japan has been supporting the Chennai Metro Rail Project through Japanese ODA Loan since 2008, and, currently, is supporting its Phase 2 project (Line 3: 36km / 40 stations, Line 5: 16km / 18 stations).

PM Modi inaugurates Rs 3,770 Washermenpet-Wimco Nagar stretch Chennai Metro Phase 1

cr of

Prime Narendra Modi Modi, on February 25 2021, inaugurated Rs 3,770 crore Washermenpet-Wimco Nagar stretch of Chennai Metro Rail Phase-I Extension during his Chennai, Tamil Nadu visit along with several other infrastructure projects. Japanese ODA Loan has supported this project.

After Chennai visit, PM Modi will also inaugurate a slew of projects in Kochi. He will dedicate to nation the Bharat Petroleum’s Propylene Derivatives Petrochemical Complex at Kochi Refinery and Inland Waterways Authority’s Roll-on/Rolloff vessels.

He has inaugurated this section from Jawahar Lal Nehru Indoor Stadium, Chennai in Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami, deputy chief minister O Panneerselvam, and other officials from state and central government, including Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL).

PM Modi will also inaugurate Cochin Port Trust’s International Cruise Terminal, Cochin Shipyard’s Vigyana Sagar, and campus for Marine Engineering Training Institute. Kerala Governor Arif Mohammad Khan, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Union Ministers Dharmendra Pradhan and Mansukh L Mandaviya will also attend the event.

“I am happy that we have inaugurated the 9 km stretch of the Chennai Phase 1 project. Chennai Metro is growing rapidly and helping us in realizing our Aatma Nirbhar Bharat dream. The budget for Metro is one of the largest projects sanctioned for any city in one go. The project will boost ‘Ease Of Living’ for Chennai & Tamil Nadu,” said Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

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Event

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END OF TRAIN TELEMETRY Server Station

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Tracking Of SBU Via GSM Network Logging In SBU and CDU Emergency Brakes From Last Wagon Service Brakes From Last Wagon Air Generator Last Wagon Brake Pressure Display Train Integrity Is Insured Speed Of Locomotive And Last Wagon Length And Change In Length Of Train Master Unit CAB 1

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Demonstrating In front of Honourable “PM Sri Narendra Modi Ji” At Rail Vikas Shivir in Surajkund Hariyana

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32 - Udyog Kendra, Ecotech-III, Greater Noida, UP-201308 Phone No:- +91 8800776682, Email ID:- info@ppsinternational.in Website:- www.ppsinternational.in

JOB

UPMRC Recruitment 2021: Apply for 292 posts in Kanpur and Agra Metro

U

ttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. (UPMRCL) invites online applications from eligible candidates for the following posts under direct recruitment.

Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (UPMRCL) has been reconstituted as a single SPV for Metro Rail projects in various cities of Uttar Pradesh and has been entrusted with the responsibility of implementation and operation of the rail-based Mass Rapid Transit System (Metro) in Lucknow, Kanpur, Agra and Gorakhpur cities where metro projects have been recently approved by Government of India.

UPMRC Details

Recruitment

2021

S. No.

Name of the Post

No of Posts

Pay Scales

1

Assistant Manager (Operations)

06 posts

Rs 50,000-1,60,000 (IDA)

2

Station Controller/Train Operators

186 posts

Rs 33,000-67,300 (IDA)

3

Maintainer/Electrician

52 posts

Rs 19,500-39,900 (IDA)

4

Maintainer/Civil

24 posts

Rs 19,500-39,900 (IDA)

5

Maintainer/S&T

24 posts

Rs 19,500-39,900 (IDA)

UPMRC Recruitment 2021: Eligibility Criteria • Assistant Manager (Operations) – Full-time Engineering Degree in Electrical/Mechanical/Electronics discipline.

For more details of educational/technical qualification, age, eligibility, etc candidates can visit the official website of UPMRCL (www.upmetrorail.com). UPMRCL provides all the details regarding recruitment on its official website only.

• Station Controller/Train Operators – Full-time diploma in Electrical/Mechanical/Electronics Engineering.

• Maintainer/Electrician – ITI/NCVT in Electrician Trade.

• Maintainer/Civil – ITI/NCVT in Civil Trade • Maintainer/S&T – ITI/NCVT in Electronic Mechanic Trade.

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