Shafts are an essential part of the metro infrastructure and support its safe and reliable operation. In the metro tunnels, shafts provide emergency exits, smoke extraction, pressure equalisation and ventilation in both normal operating conditions and emergency situations.
The West Metro section includes a total of 23 shafts. Located at approximately 600-metre intervals along the route, the shaft buildings extend from the tunnels to ground level and serve as emergency exits. Each shaft contains a fire-compartmented escape stairway.