Wonder how the Paris Metro trains stay in tip-top shape? Here at Atelier de Maintenance de Bobigny, we will discover a world dedicated to the upkeep of these essential vehicles.
Atelier de Maintenance de Bobigny ensures the smooth running of Line 5. This Bobigny workshop also keeps the T1 tramway in excellent condition. Located between the Bobigny-Pantin-Raymond Queneau and Bobigny-Pablo Picasso stations, this facility plays a vital role.
Opened in 1988, Atelier de Maintenance de Bobigny has been a cornerstone of the Metro’s maintenance network. It expanded in 1992 to accommodate the T1 tramway. The Atelier de Maintenance de Bobigny spans an impressive 43,900 square meters. About sixty agents keep the Metro and tram lines running efficiently.
These workshops are essential. They handle the regular maintenance and revisions required by the rolling stock. There are two main types of workshops. Petite Révision or PR workshops take care of the routine maintenance and cleaning. Grande Révision or GR workshops handle the periodic overhauls of the equipment.
Each train is sent to a PR workshop after travelling about 1,500 km. This happens roughly once a week. GR workshops handle more extensive repairs that cannot be done in the petite révision.
The Atelier de Maintenance de Bobigny is linked to Line 5 between two stations. It’s also connected to the T1 tramway. Inside the depot, you might spot a MF 67 in a pit. These pits allow workers to easily access the undercarriage of the trains. You can also observe the roof of a train from special platforms.
Interestingly, workshops appeared as lines were created. The first workshop opened in 1900 near Porte de Vincennes. As the Metro expanded, more workshops were established. The Atelier de Maintenance de Bobigny stands as a testament to the ongoing commitment. It ensures the reliability and safety of the Paris Metro and tramway systems. Modern methods have led to some specialization. Early on each line had its own workshop for all maintenance. Now, certain workshops focus on specific tasks.
Consider the Atelier de Maintenance de Bobigny. It is essential to the daily lives of countless Parisians. Next time you ride Line 5 or the T1 tramway. Remember the dedicated team working tirelessly behind the scenes at the Atelier de Maintenance de Bobigny.