Italy: Alstom Consortium to Upgrade Signalling on Regional Line

Image courtesy of Alstom

Alstom Consortium to Upgrade Signalling on Regional Line

A consortium led by Alstom has won a 34million contract with Italian railway network Gruppo FS to upgrade signalling systems on the 51km Milano Centrale Milano Smistamento Monza Chiasso line. Alstoms share of the contract is 21million.

Alstom will install its ERTMS level 2 solution including its cutting-edge, multi-station, computerised interlocking system, Smartlock 400 GP system. Smartlock 400 minimises operating costs by totally automating routes and gives direct connections to stations services like passenger information. It is fully integrated, featuring direct interface with points machines and signals, thus doing away with traditional relays, and supplies remote diagnostics all with simplified installation requirements.

The project will be coordinated from Alstoms centre of excellence in Bologna and the R&D centre in Bari, with support from the Charleroi site in Belgium.

The route is part of Corridor A, which runs from Genoa to Rotterdam, of the European network interoperable corridors, and will be the first non-high-speed line in Italy to be completely controlled by a level 2 ERTMS system.

David Cannafoglia, Vice President Alstom TIS South Europe and Director of the Bologna site said:

 As a result of the project, which includes the installation of a new-generation product, the lines already high level of safety will be further increased. Furthermore, the ERTMS-2 system, which is being implemented on conventional lines for the first time in Italy, will facilitate the work of train drivers. Traffic management on the whole line will be easier and more efficient for the operational centre.

The 30 month schedule of works will result in the operator being able to manage trains safely and in keeping with computerised interlocking systems regulations. It will mean a safer, more punctual service for passengers.