Irish Rail (Iarnród Éireann, IE) awarded Alstom a contract to deliver and install cutting-edge signalling technologies comprising the Smartlock Computer-Based Interlocking (CBI) system and European Train Control System (ETCS) for Cork commuter rail system (CACR – Corks Area Commuter Rail).
“I commend our Cork Area Commuter Rail team in ensuring that all three elements of the CACR Programme are progressing so swiftly. New signalling, our new platform, and twin-tracking of Glounthaune to Midleton are set to transform the capacity of our Cork Commuter rail network, and position us well to move forward with other rail projects under the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy, including the critical delivery of new stations,” Jim Meade, Iarnród Éireann Chief Executive said.
At the core of this transformative initiative is Alstom’s state-of-the-art Smartlock CBI system that will serve as the project’s primary foundation, offering a safe, simplified, and maintenance-friendly solution. By directly interfacing with axle counters and trackside objects through SmartIO, the Smartlock system eliminates the need for intermediate relays, ensuring a robust, efficient, and streamlined operation.
In addition to Smartlock interlocking, the project will also feature the ETCS Level 1 trackside technology that will further strengthen the commitment to safety and ensures a smooth, secure, and eco-friendly rail network. The combined power of Smartlock and ETCS will pave the way for a remarkable transformation of passenger journeys on key commuter routes within the Cork area and is able to be expanded across the entire rail network.
The 62 km Cork commuter rail system aims to modernise and upgrade the network stretching from Mallow to Cork, Cobh, and Midleton, creating a seamless, high-frequency unified suburban rail service for the people of Cork.
In 2020, the National Transport Authority (NTA), Cork City and County Councils and Transport Infrastructure Ireland presented the transport strategy for 2040, with rail as the central component of the vision. The strategy includes the development of three existing rail corridors in city’s area, multimodal integrated transport hub at Kent station to shift road transport towards railways, the procurement of new rolling stock and the construction of new stations and park & ride facilities.
Alstom is the winner of the train framework agreement under which will supply Irish Rail up to 750 new X’trapolis commuter rail cars for DART system with firm orders for 37 five-car trains, 31 of which BEMUs and six EMUs. Recently, the French company was also awarded the contract to build a charging facility for the new BEMU fleet.
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