Riyadh Metro Line 1: Alstom’s NSL Signalling System Success

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Introduction

In November 2023, Alstom announced the successful implementation of the NSL signalling system on the first line of the new Riyadh Metro in Saudi Arabia.

Riyadh Metro Line 1 Achievement

Alstom has completed the implementation of the NSL signalling system on Riyadh Metro Line 1. This line, which spans 44 km, is now operational. The NSL signalling system is designed to facilitate Automatic Train Operation (ATO) at Grade of Automation 4 (GoA4), which allows for driverless operation.

Project Scope and Infrastructure

The Riyadh Metro project includes six lines with a total length of 176 km. Line 1 runs from the north to the south of Riyadh. The project also encompasses 85 stations, which were designed by different architectural firms. The line has been constructed as part of a consortium led by Bechtel, with Alstom as a key technology provider. The Riyadh Metro is expected to enhance the transportation network of the city and reduce traffic congestion.

Signalling System Details

The NSL signalling system, developed by Alstom, manages the movement of trains, ensuring safe and efficient operations. The system features Automatic Train Protection (ATP) and Automatic Train Supervision (ATS) capabilities. The GoA4 functionality enables the trains to operate without drivers, with all operations controlled automatically from a central control room. Alstom also provided Urbalis Fluence, its Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) solution for this project.

Alstom’s Role and Future Prospects

Alstom’s contract for the Riyadh Metro project includes the supply of Metropolis metro trains, the Urbalis signalling system, and the Hesop energy recovery system. The company’s involvement also includes maintenance services for a duration of 10 years. The successful deployment of the NSL signalling system on Line 1 marks a significant milestone for Alstom in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and demonstrates its capability in delivering complex urban rail projects. This implementation of the NSL signalling system is expected to contribute to the overall efficiency and safety of the Riyadh Metro network.

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Conclusion

Alstom has successfully implemented the NSL signalling system on Riyadh Metro Line 1, which is 44 km long. This implementation supports driverless operations and is part of a larger project including six lines and 85 stations.

Alstom

Alstom is a global leader in the railway industry, providing a wide range of products and services, including rolling stock, signalling systems, and infrastructure solutions. The company is involved in numerous projects worldwide, contributing to sustainable mobility.

Technology

NSL signalling system: A signalling system developed by Alstom for automatic train operation and protection, facilitating driverless train operations.
ATO (Automatic Train Operation): A system that automates train operation.
GoA4 (Grade of Automation 4): A level of automation that enables driverless train operations.
ATP (Automatic Train Protection): A safety system that automatically stops a train if it exceeds speed limits or enters a restricted area.
ATS (Automatic Train Supervision): A system that monitors and controls train movements.
CBTC (Communications-Based Train Control): A railway signalling system based on a radio system between the train and trackside equipment for train location, speed, and other information.

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