Thessaloniki Metro: 151mio-euro tenders to be launched for electromechanical equipment and trains procurement

The project for the expansion of Thessaloniki Metro towards Kalamaria, which will be the second line of the network, is in full progress. On November 20, the first TBM, reached the 4^th station of the line, “Kalamaria”, having opened in just 8 months, record-breaking time, 55% of the tunnel, making Attiko Metro for the very first time in its history to revise its schedule… only for the better.

In fact, it is now considered realistic that the opening of the twin tunnels will have been completed until next Summer and be finally connected with the Main Line at Patrikios Station.

Interesting news for this line (or branch, alternatively) is the launch of several tenders that are necessary for its operation, quite shortly. The total cost of these is estimated at 151mio euros and include:

– The supply of 12 automatic, driverless. The cost will be 105mio euros and is expected sometime in 2018.

–  Signalling and traction system for the secure and smooth operation of the line. The cost is 25mio euros and will probably be the first to be launched by Attiko Metro.

– Multiple tenders concern the supply of electromechanical equipment that will start immediately, costing 20mio euros. Even though it has not yet been decided how many they will be, according to exclusive information provided at Ypodomes.com, they will include:

a. Automated ticket validation system (3.5mio euros)

b. Power Remote Control System – PRCS (900k euros)

c. Security Access System – SMS (1.4mio euros)

d. Data Digital Transmission System (1.5mio euros)

e. Closed Circuit Television – CCTV (2.3mio euros)

f. Public Address System – PA (1.5mio euros)

g. Wireless Communication System – TETRA (2mio euros)

h. Buildings’ Automation and Control System (1.55mio euros)

It is worth mentioning that these tenders have secured funding by NSRF 2014-2020 as it is a Phasing project and receives European assistance. This is the very first time, since 2013 when the project initiated, that the completion schedule is clear and defined.

As it was made known recently, Kalamaria Line will start its trial operation in 2019 and its commercial operation in 2021. Between 2020 and 2022, Thessaloniki Metro is expected to develop its solid, first Metro network, consisting of 2 lines with 18 underground stations totally, covering an important part of the city. At a later stage, 3 extensions to Efkarpia, Kordelio and Makedonia Airport are expected adding to the existing network 14 new stations.

Nikos Karagiannis-ypodomes.com

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