Kochi: Commuters would be greeted with clean coaches once the Kochi Metro starts operation as it would be using the most sophisticated technology, better than that of the Delhi Metro, when it comes to cleaning of rakes. While the automated washing plant of the Delhi Metro can wash only the sides of the metro, the one installed at the Muttom Yard can clean the roof, rear and front portions of the Metro traincar besides the sides.
“Since we are using third rail traction for train operations, we went in for the latest technology which could wash and dry a complete train-set in five minutes. In contrast, manual cleaning will take a minimum of three hours. Roof cleaning is vital given the climatic condition of the state. During monsoon, the drain pipe could be blocked that may lead to trickling of water inside the saloon,” sources said. The washing plant was set up on the ramp linking the track and the depot at the yard.
All trains going into the depot can use the service. The only action the metro pilot will have to take is to slow down the train to under five kmph while passing through the plant after pressing the ‘wash’ coupling button. The technology also provides for recycling of the water used for cleaning. A total of 1500 litres will be used for a single time cleaning and out of this, 750 litres will be available after the recycling process to be used again.
