Track dampers on Mumbai Metro to curb noise pollution

Written By Mehul R Thakkar | Updated: Jun 08, 2018, 07:42 AM IST

The Mumbai Metro at Andheri

According to several studies, track dampers usage on tracks can achieve an approximately reduction of 1-3 decibels coming from tracks where curves are aligned compared to the tracks that do not have any fitting of such dampers.

In order to curb noise pollution, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has planned to install dampeners, also known was track dampers, on the Metro tracks at several locations which have sharp curves.

"There are several curves on the two under construction Metro corridor of Andheri East- Dahisar East Metro-7 and Dahisar- DN Nagar Metro-2A corridor. However, there are a total of three curves that require dampers on Metro-7 and Metro-2A near Dahisar that are steep," said Pravin Darade, Additional Metropolitan Commissioner, MMRDA.

According to several studies, track dampers usage on tracks can achieve an approximately reduction of 1-3 decibels coming from tracks where curves are aligned compared to the tracks that do not have any fitting of such dampers.
"There are not too many steeps curves but we are going to install dampeners as a precautionary measure to have reduction in noise levels"

Currently, The MMRDA is in the process of having Metro coaches also known as rolling stocks. The bidding process for the same is ongoing and around 12 companies have shown interest. MMRDA has also proposed to have a first class compartment in the upcoming Metro corridors to attract car owners.

Meanwhile, there have been past complaints filed by residents of Andheri against the curvature on the Versova-Andheri-Ghatkopar Metro-1 corridor.

NK Goyle, a resident of JP Road, Andheri, said, "I have complained about the noise levels due to the curvature which causes immense inconvenience to around 100 people residing in my locality near Navrang Cinema."

COMPLAINTS 

There have been past complaints against the curvature on the Versova-Andheri-Ghatkopar Metro-1 corridor, which makes a screeching sound every time a train passes from either side