Arun Kumar is head of the signalling, telecom and automatic fare collection (AFC)/information technology wing of the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC). He is responsible for planning and executing new metro projects in Delhi, Mumbai, Patna, Jaipur and Bhubaneswar. He leads a large team of professionals to implement modern communications-based signalling systems, including driverless train operations, platform screen doors and AFC systems.
Prior to this, Kumar worked with Indian Railways (IR) for over 35 years in various capacities. He was involved in executing a large number of automatic signalling works based on electronic interlocking and multi-section digital axle counter systems with dual fibres, automatic train protection systems, etc. He has won several awards for his work with IR. He received the Meritorious Performance Award in 2003 for working on an anti-collision device, and an appreciation letter from the GM of North Central Railway in 2011 for providing an innovative solution for removing capacity constraints in the Tundla Yard in Uttar Pradesh. He also spent four years on secondment with Atkins PLC in the UAE and UK, during which time he worked on rail network resignalling and modernisation projects.
According to Kumar, some of the major challenges faced by urban mass rapid transport systems are the very high cost of systems supplied by a limited number of multinational corporations and original equipment manufacturers, and subsequent dependence on them for post-commissioning maintenance/ modifications support. To overcome this, DMRC is trying to develop indigenous resources, and has initiated research and development activities through industrial partners. According to him, the infrastructure sector in India is going through a golden period. It has witnessed increased allocation of government expenditure across the roads, ports, aviation, railways and urban transport segments. He says, “As the country is making significant progress, future prospects in the infrastructure sector are very bright across all its segments, including mass rapid transport systems.”
Kumar holds a BTech in Electronics and Communication from the University of Allahabad. He is a team player, and believes in building team spirit and motivating/encouraging his team to achieve new heights in performance.