DMRC’s Smart Initiative: No More Dragging of Clothes or Belongings in Moving Metro Trains

Here’s a big relief for passengers traveling in the Delhi Metro. It has often been observed that while the metro doors are closing, passengers’ dupattas, bags, or saree pallus get stuck, leading to dangerous situations and sometimes even accidents. To completely eliminate this risk, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) is working on a new technology to prevent such incidents.

Automatic Emergency Braking System

DMRC has currently installed this technology on a trial basis in one metro train, and installation is underway in four more trains. The key feature of this system is that if an object such as clothing or luggage gets caught while the doors are closing, the train will automatically apply emergency brakes. This will prevent items from being dragged along with the moving train, eliminating life-threatening scenarios.

Instant Pressure Detection Mechanism

DMRC’s Managing Director, Vikas Kumar, explained that this “Anti-Drag” feature immediately detects any pressure or obstruction between the train doors and accordingly halts the train’s movement. Previously, the door sensors could detect obstructions of up to 15 mm thickness, but this has now been reduced to just 7 mm to ensure even thin fabrics like dupattas are identified effectively.

Where Will This Technology Be Implemented?

According to DMRC officials, this technology is currently essential only for older metro lines because newer lines like the Pink and Magenta lines already have Platform Screen Doors (PSDs) installed. These PSDs significantly reduce the chances of anything getting stuck in the doors. In the upcoming Phase 4 expansion, PSDs will be mandatory at all stations.

To enhance passenger awareness, DMRC is also broadcasting announcements inside metro trains, urging commuters to be cautious with sarees, dupattas, dhotis, or bag straps, ensuring they are kept away from the doors while boarding and alighting.