Background and Importance of the Project
The Cuauhtémoc-Chapultepec segment of Mexico City’s Metro Line 1 has been reopened, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing modernization efforts of the city’s public transportation system. The reopening was officiated by Clara Brugada Molina, the Head of Government of Mexico City, and Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, the President of Mexico. This development brings 85% of the line back into service, reducing travel time between Pantitlán and Chapultepec by 40 minutes.
Key Modernization Efforts
The modernization project encompassed a comprehensive overhaul, including the replacement of tracks, tunnels, electrical, electronic, hydraulic systems, and signaling. The initiative also involved the installation of 3,000 video cameras and the acquisition of new trains. Moreover, universal accessibility was ensured across all installations.
Future Plans for Metro Expansion
Following the success of Line 1, the focus now shifts to the renewal of Lines 3 and 8, as well as the expansion of Line 12. The ultimate goal is to extend these improvements to other lines, prioritizing Lines 3, 8, and the Line 12 expansion.
Speeches by Clara Brugada Molina and Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo
Clara Brugada Molina highlighted the extensive renovation, emphasizing the installation of 3,000 video cameras and new trains. Sheinbaum Pardo praised the rapid completion of the project, stating that it is equivalent to building a new line, except for tunnel excavation. She also announced that the complete overhaul of Line 1 will be finished by August to September 2025.
Comprehensive Metropolitan Mobility Plan
Sheinbaum Pardo reiterated her commitment to a sustainable mobility plan across the Greater Mexico City Metropolitan Area. This includes constructing new Cablebús lines, completing the Iztapalapa Elevated Trolebús and Interurban Train projects, connecting them to Line 12 of the Metro, and leveling Line A along Ignacio Zaragoza Boulevard.
Details of Modernization
Guillermo Calderón Aguilera, General Director of the Sistema de Transporte Colectivo (STC), detailed that 17 out of 20 stations are now operational, transporting approximately 500,000 passengers daily.
- New Trains: 29 new, energy-efficient trains will be in use, each equipped with 72 security cameras.
- Track and Infrastructure Upgrades: 240,000 meters of profiles (including rails, tracks, bearings, and guide bars) were replaced. 161 tonnes of ballast were changed, and over 336 kilometers of tracks and more than 2,000 kilometers of cabling were installed.
- Accessibility Improvements: 41 new elevators, 50 modernized ticket machines, and 500 turnstiles that can read both the Integrated Mobility Card and bank cards have been installed. Each station will have over 100 cameras, and there are now 22,000 streetlights and a train control and monitoring system.
- Drainage, Fire Protection, and Ventilation Systems: 40 kilometers of the drainage system were renewed, with eight dams rehabilitated and three newly constructed. The fire protection system was updated, and 70 turbojets were installed for ventilation. Two telecommunication networks have been established, including an 86-kilometer fiber optic multiservice network and an LTE network with 76 kilometers of radiant cable.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the significance of this reopening? The Cuauhtémoc-Chapultepec segment’s reopening signifies 85% of Line 1’s modernization, reducing travel time and enhancing the overall Metro experience for commuters.
- What are the future plans for Mexico City’s Metro? Future plans include renewing Lines 3 and 8, expanding Line 12, and ensuring all lines are modernized with improved accessibility and security features.
- What is the timeline for completing the entire Line 1 modernization? The complete overhaul of Line 1 is expected to be finished by August to September 2025.
