Mexico City, December 22 – The Mexico City Metro (STC) has introduced four advanced virtual simulators for the training of drivers operating Line 1, which connects Observatorio to Pantitlán. These cutting-edge devices enable personnel to virtually practice diverse risk scenarios they might encounter on the tracks, significantly enhancing safety and operational efficiency.
CDMX Government Invests in Technology and Workforce
As part of the comprehensive renewal and modernization process of the “New Line 1,” the Head of Government of Mexico City, Clara Brugada, officially unveiled these state-of-the-art simulators. The investment underscores a commitment to both technological advancement and the professional development of STC employees.
“The best investment we can make is in technology and in our workers, because this commitment contributes to a better future for our Metro,” stated Brugada Molina during the launch event.
Speaking from the Metro’s Training Center, the capital’s leader emphasized that these new simulators will allow operators to prepare for various situations without posing any risk to passengers. She also indicated that these virtual cabins could be integrated into training programs for other lines, further bolstering the overall safety of the system.
How the New Metro Simulators Operate
The four simulators, supplied by Lander Simulations, are designed to replicate real-world operating conditions with high fidelity. This includes everything from train acceleration and braking maneuvers to signal changes, radio communication protocols, and emergency procedures.
Adrián Rubalcava, Director of the Metro, explained that these units objectively simulate potential incidents that may occur on the tracks. “This allows us to train operators without exposing users and gives us the opportunity to experience daily situations across all of Line 1,” he noted.
The technology is crucial for understanding the new CBTC (Communication-Based Train Control) piloting system. The goal is to strengthen the technical competencies of personnel, improving response times, speed control, and adherence to signaling. Within the cabins, drivers navigate virtual representations of real stations, complete with animated passengers waiting on platforms.
Metro Budget to Reach 25 Billion Pesos by 2026
During the event, held in the Cuatro Árboles neighborhood of the Venustiano Carranza borough, Clara Brugada announced that the Metro’s budget for 2026 will reach 25 billion pesos (approximately 1.47 billion USD). This substantial allocation will be supplemented by federal funds earmarked for the maintenance of Lines 3 and A, as well as for completing the connection between Lines 1 and 12.
This budget represents a significant 20 percent increase in resources over the last two years, reflecting the government’s commitment to the Metro’s ongoing improvement. “That’s why we are allocating 25 billion pesos to the Metro for 2026, as approved by the City Congress. This is the transportation system that receives the most resources due to its importance and needs. We have increased the Metro’s resources by 20 percent in two years, and with this, we aim to advance in maintenance, security, and modernization,” affirmed the Head of Government.
Future Plans for Lines 3, A, and 12
Clara Brugada also provided an update on future projects, revealing that a master plan for the renovation of Line 3 is already in place, with work scheduled to commence in 2026. Additionally, progress is being made on the planning for the restructuring of Line A and the completion of Line 12.
She concluded by highlighting that the Mexico City Metro remains one of the most affordable and accessible public transportation systems globally. “It costs less than a third of a ticket for the Buenos Aires, Sao Paulo, or Bogotá Metro,” she emphasized.
“The Metro is an example of a universal and progressive public good because everyone can access it; and it’s important to say that the Metro benefits popular sectors, those who have the least. The more we support the Metro, the more we support the population,” Brugada underscored.
Source: https://www.chilango.com/noticias/transporte/metro-cdmx-simuladores-virtuales-linea-1-conductores-accidentes/amp
