The Chennai Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (CUMTA) has suggested that IIT-Madras approach the Tamil Nadu government to seek permission for conducting hyperloop trials on the 62km Outer Ring Road (ORR) stretch in Chennai. The central median along the ORR could be an ideal place to test the hyperloop technology at speeds of up to 600kmph.
TuTr Hyperloop, a deep tech startup incubated at IIT-Madras, is currently developing the technology and plans to test it at a speed of around 100kmph at the 410-metre hyperloop test track located at IIT-Madras’ Discovery Campus in Thaiyur. However, for further testing at higher speeds, a longer test track is required to simulate the vacuum-sealed environment necessary for achieving the high speeds associated with hyperloop travel.
CUMTA’s Suggestions for Hyperloop Testing
During a discussion held a few months ago, CUMTA special officer I Jayakumar suggested that the proposed new airport in Parandur could be connected via hyperloop. He also mentioned that the state has a 22m wide median patch along the ORR, which could be utilized for testing the technology at higher speeds.
Previous Proposal for ORR Land Usage
This is not the first time a proposal has been put forth for using the 22m wide stretch along the ORR. Ennore Port had previously sent a proposal to the state government to provide rail linkages from Nandiambakkam to Avadi, extending up to Vandalur. The proposal intended to use the land across the ORR for a rail link between Ennore Port and Nemilichery, but it was later dropped.
IIT-Madras Yet to Approach TN Government
Although CUMTA has suggested that IIT-Madras approach the Tamil Nadu government for permission to use the ORR stretch for hyperloop trials, the institute has not yet done so. TuTr Hyperloop is currently focusing on developing and testing the technology at the test track on their campus.
Potential Benefits of Hyperloop Technology
If successful, hyperloop technology could revolutionize transportation by enabling high-speed travel while reducing energy consumption and environmental impact. The testing of this technology in Chennai could position the city as a leader in the development and implementation of cutting-edge transportation solutions.
Conclusion
The suggestion by CUMTA for IIT-Madras to approach the Tamil Nadu government for permission to conduct hyperloop trials on the ORR stretch in Chennai highlights the potential for the city to become a testbed for innovative transportation technologies. As TuTr Hyperloop continues to develop and refine their technology, the successful testing and implementation of hyperloop could pave the way for faster, more efficient, and sustainable transportation solutions in the future.
