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Driving Efficiency: Optimizing ATO Speed Profiles for Sustainable Metro

Operations

Among the many strides taken by Kochi Metro towards operational sustainability, the
implementation of an optimized ATO (Automatic Train Operation) speed profile stands

out as a quiet but powerful innovation. Traditionally, ATO systems have been
programmed to prioritize schedule adherence, often at the expense of energy

efficiency. Recognizing this trade-off, Kochi Metro undertook a careful recalibration of
its ATO speed logic, shifting focus toward conserving traction energy without

compromising service punctuality. By fine-tuning acceleration, extending coasting
phases, and minimizing excessive braking, the optimized profile enabled a smoother

and more energy-efficient ride. The results speak volumes: an annual cost saving of

₹75.64 lakhs in traction energy expenditure, achieved without additional hardware or
infrastructure changes. This initiative exemplifies how intelligent system-level
optimization grounded in data, operational insight, and environmental responsibility

can yield significant financial and ecological dividends. In a broader sense, it reflects

Kochi Metro’s ethos of blending technological refinement with sustainability, and
serves as a replicable model for urban transit systems aiming to reduce their carbon

and energy footprint through smart operations.

Environmental and Operational Impact

Kochi Metro’s integrated approach of combining in-house repair capabilities, intelligent

inventory management, and concurrent spares strategy has delivered significant
operational and environmental benefits. Since 2021, Mean Time to Repair (MTTR) has

improved by over 40%, ensuring quicker fault resolution and higher system uptime.
Spare procurement costs have been reduced by approximately 30%, thanks to

effective in-house refurbishing and component-level repairs. Notably, over 75% of
failed CBTC modules are now restored internally, drastically cutting down reliance on

OEMs and minimizing the carbon footprint associated with overseas shipping and

logistics. As a result, electronic waste has been reduced by more than 70%, aligning
with KMRL’s sustainability goals. This outcome-driven model showcases how resource

optimization, technical capacity building, and digital transformation can power
sustainable operations even within the complex and safety-critical landscape of metro

signalling systems.
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