MSE
PART A
SECTION 1
Introduction to Metro Systems
Metro systems, also known as rapid transit, subways, or underground
railways, are high-capacity public transportation networks primarily used in urban
areas to efficiently move large numbers of people. These systems are designed to
reduce traffic congestion, minimize environmental impact, and offer a reliable
alternative to road-based transport.
Key Features of Metro Systems
1. High Capacity and Frequency
Metro trains can carry thousands of passengers per hour, with frequent
departures, often every few minutes during peak hours.
2. Grade Separation
Metro lines are usually separated from other traffic—either underground,
elevated, or on exclusive surface tracks—allowing uninterrupted service.
3. Fixed Routes and Stations
They operate on fixed tracks with specific stations, making it easy for
passengers to plan routes and transfers.
4. Electric Operation
Most metros are electrically powered, contributing to reduced air pollution
and lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to car-based transport.
Components of a Metro System
Rolling Stock: The trains or railcars used in metro operations.
Track Infrastructure: Includes rails, tunnels, elevated structures, and
depots.
Stations: Facilities where passengers enter or exit the system, often
equipped with ticketing machines, platforms, and security.
Signaling System: Advanced control systems manage train movement,
ensure safety, and optimize service frequency.
Benefits of Metro Systems
Reduces Traffic Congestion: Fewer vehicles on the road lead to smoother
travel and less time wasted in traffic.
Environmentally Friendly: Electric trains produce lower emissions than
cars and buses.
Efficient Use of Space: Especially in crowded cities, underground metros
help save surface space.
Economic Boost: Enhances connectivity, promoting business and job
access.
Overview of Metro Systems
What Is a Metro System?
A metro system—also known as a subway, underground, tube, or rapid transit
—is a high-capacity public transport system found in metropolitan areas. It
typically uses electric-powered trains running on exclusive rights-of-way, often
underground, elevated, or at-grade.
Key Characteristics
Feature Description
Designed to move large numbers of people quickly and
High Capacity
efficiently.
Dedicated
Exclusive tracks with no interference from other traffic.
Infrastructure
High Frequency Trains often run every 2–5 minutes during peak hours.
Uses electric multiple units (EMUs), reducing pollution in
Electric Operation
cities.
Some systems use fully automated trains, while others rely
Automated or Manual
on human drivers.
Core Components
1. Tracks &Guideways – Underground, elevated, or at-grade rails.
2. Stations – Access points for passengers; often include ticketing systems and
amenities.
3. Rolling Stock – The train cars used; vary in size, speed, and automation.
4. Signaling & Control Systems – Ensure safe and efficient train operation.
5. Power Supply – Typically via overhead lines or a third rail.
Types of Metro Systems
Heavy Rail – Full-scale metro like New York City Subway, London
Underground.
Light Metro – Smaller capacity, often automated (e.g., Copenhagen Metro).
Automated People Movers (APMs) – Used at airports or in small
downtown areas.
Benefits
Reduces road congestion.
Environmentally friendly (low emissions).
Reliable and fast.
Supports economic growth by improving mobility.
Challenges
High capital cost for construction and maintenance.
Disruptions during building phases.
Requires high urban density to be cost-effective.
Notable Metro Systems Around the World
City System Name Notable Features
Tokyo Tokyo Metro Extremely punctual and dense network.
New York
NYC Subway 24/7 operation and extensive coverage.
City
City System Name Notable Features
London
London World's first underground metro (opened 1863).
Underground
Shanghai Shanghai Metro One of the world’s largest by route length.
High frequency and integration with RER
Paris Métro
commuter trains.
Future Trends
Automation: Driverless trains and AI-based control.
Smart Ticketing: Contactless and mobile payments.
Green Tech: Regenerative braking, solar-powered stations.
Transit-Oriented Development (TOD): Building cities around transit hubs.
TOPICS : Need for Metros; Routing studies; Basic Planning and Financials.
1. Need for Metros
a. Urbanization and Traffic Growth
Rapid urban population growth has led to traffic congestion and pressure on
existing public transport.
Private vehicle ownership increases pollution, fuel consumption, and road
accidents.
b. Environmental Concerns
Metro systems offer energy-efficient, low-emission transport alternatives.
Reduces urban carbon footprint compared to road-based systems.
c. Mobility and Accessibility
Improves urban mobility, reducing travel time significantly.
Connects residential areas with commercial, industrial, and educational
hubs.
d. Economic Development
Enhances productivity by saving travel time.
Spurs transit-oriented development (TOD) and real estate growth near
stations.
2. Routing Studies
a. Demand Assessment
Passenger origin-destination (O-D) surveys.
Traffic volume counts, peak hour congestion studies.
Socio-economic data analysis.
b. Corridor Identification
High-density traffic corridors (arterial and sub-arterial roads).
Existing public transport routes with heavy demand.
Connectivity to airports, railway stations, and bus terminals.
c. Alignment Options
At-grade, elevated, or underground options depending on land use, cost, and
urban form.
Minimization of land acquisition and displacement.
d. Intermodal Integration
Seamless interchange with buses, suburban trains, BRT, and non-motorized
transport.
Last-mile connectivity planning.
3. Basic Planning
a. System Specifications
Gauge type (standard/broad).
Coach capacity, speed, headway, and frequency.
Train control and signaling systems.
b. Station Planning
Location based on accessibility and catchment area.
Platform length (based on projected train length).
Facilities: escalators, lifts, security, retail, and parking.
c. Maintenance Infrastructure
Depot location and size.
Rolling stock maintenance and stabling facilities.
d. Regulatory and Policy Framework
Coordination with local municipal and planning authorities.
Compliance with national metro guidelines (e.g., Metro Rail Policy, India).
4. Financials
a. Capital Cost Estimate
Civil works: track, stations, tunnels, depots.
Rolling stock procurement.
Systems: electrification, signaling, telecom, AFC (automated fare
collection).
b. Operating Cost Estimate
Energy, staff salaries, routine maintenance.
Annual cost escalation assumptions.
c. Funding Sources
Central/state government support.
Multilateral/bilateral loans (e.g., JICA, ADB, World Bank).
PPP models (design-build-finance-operate-transfer).
Land value capture (LVC), transit-oriented development (TOD).
d. Revenue Sources
Farebox revenue.
Non-fare revenue (advertising, retail, real estate, parking).
Government subsidies or viability gap funding (VGF).
e. Economic and Financial Analysis
Internal Rate of Return (IRR) – Economic vs. Financial.
Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA) including environmental and social benefits.
Sensitivity and risk analysis
TOPICS:- Planning and Development Overview and construction methods for:
Elevated and underground Stations
1. Elevated Stations
Overview
Elevated stations are built above ground, typically on viaducts or platforms
supported by piers or columns. They are commonly used in dense urban
environments to minimize land use and avoid traffic interference.
Planning Considerations
Land Use: Minimal footprint at ground level; good for congested areas.
Aesthetics: Visual impact and noise must be mitigated.
Accessibility: Requires elevators/escalators for ADA compliance.
Integration: Must be aligned with urban zoning, utilities, and existing
infrastructure.
Construction Methods
a. Precast Segmental Construction
Viaduct and platform segments are precast offsite and assembled using
cranes.
Fast and reduces on-site work.
b. Cast-in-Place Concrete
Used where precasting isn’t feasible.
Slower, but allows for custom geometries.
c. Steel or Composite Structures
Used for long spans or special architectural requirements.
Lighter and often quicker to install.
d. Top-Down Construction (for platforms)
Less common, but allows building platform before other components,
minimizing disruption.
Pros
Faster and cheaper than tunneling.
Less disruption to underground utilities.
Good visibility and safety.
Cons
Visual and noise pollution.
Exposure to weather.
Integration challenges in dense zones.
2. Underground Stations
Overview
Built below ground to preserve surface-level space and reduce visual impact. Ideal
for city centers and high-density areas.
Planning Considerations
Geotechnical surveys: Essential for tunnel alignment and structural safety.
Ventilation & fire safety: Complex and crucial.
Utility Relocation: Often required before excavation.
Access and Emergency Egress: Must meet stringent codes.
Construction Methods
a. Cut and Cover
Excavation from the surface down, then covered over after construction.
Suitable for shallow stations.
Requires major surface disruption.
b. Bored Tunneling (with TBMs)
Tunnel Boring Machines create deep tunnels.
Stations often constructed using mined caverns or shafts.
Minimal surface disruption.
c. New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM)
Sequential excavation with ground support in stages.
Suited for complex ground conditions.
d. Immersed Tube (for underwater sections)
Precast tunnel segments sunk into a trench and covered.
Used in underwater crossings (e.g., rivers).
Pros
Minimal visual impact.
Quiet and weather-protected.
Ideal for central business districts.
Cons
High cost and long timelines.
Complex logistics and safety management.
Risk of ground settlement affecting nearby structures.
Comparison Table
Feature Elevated Station Underground Station
Cost Lower Higher
Construction
Shorter Longer
Time
High (cut-and-cover), Low
Disruption Moderate (above ground)
(bored)
Requires vertical access Requires complex access +
Accessibility
systems safety
Aesthetic Impact High (visible) Low (invisible)
Maintenance Easier (accessible) Harder (confined space)
Ideal Use Case Suburban or industrial Dense city centers, historic
Feature Elevated Station Underground Station
corridors zones
