Gush Dan metro could operate on Shabbat as driverless trains may cut NIS 150m. in annual costs

Israel's planned Gush Dan metro system is set to be highly automated and driverless, with the technical capability to operate on weekends. This advanced system aims to run trains every minute and a half, even during peak hours, and could reduce annual operating costs by approximately NIS 150 million by eliminating the need for around 1,000 drivers.

The NTA Metropolitan Mass Transit System company is progressing with the project, having published prequalification documents for companies competing in the tender for the trains, systems, and operations. This follows a similar stage for the construction of tunnels and underground stations. The metro network will span about 150 kilometers, include 109 underground stations, and connect 24 local authorities in the Tel Aviv metropolitan area, from Rehovot to Kfar Saba. It is projected to handle over 600 million passenger trips annually.

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Operating driverless trains will eliminate the need to recruit around 1,000 metro drivers, a significant challenge amid the shortage of public transportation drivers, and will reduce operating costs by approximately NIS 150 million per year.

While the system is technically capable of operating on weekends, an NTA official emphasized that this decision rests with the political leadership. Running driverless trains would minimize Shabbat violations, though security and operations personnel would still be required. The high level of automation necessitates that tender participants include Israeli companies specializing in cyber and information security.

The project is structured into two main tenders for different lines, with a focus on integrating all systems, including trains, signaling, control, electricity, and station operations. Each bidding group must comprise both foreign and Israeli companies. The NTA is drawing lessons from previous projects to ensure seamless communication and operation across the network, aiming for a robust and efficient mass transit system for the Gush Dan region.

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An NTA official stressed, however, that weekend service is only a technical possibility and that the decision will ultimately be made by the political leadership.