India has begun trial runs on its first standard gauge train as part of New Delhi's ongoing metro system.
The metro has been built to run on standard gauge allowing trains to take sharper curves, unlike the Metro Phase I lines which are built on broad gauge.
The train, the first of the 48 trains ordered by Delhi Metro Rail Corporation, is being tested on the 6.8km Mundka-Peeragarhi line to check for suspension, safety, reliability and passenger comfort.
More trials will be conducted in August 2009 after the trains get clearance certificate from the Research Design and Standards Organization.
Once fully operational, the trains will run on three lines of Metro Phase II – Inderlok-Mundka, Central Secretariat-Badarpur and the Airport Express Line.
