RRTS Corridor: NCRTC to Plant 250k plants along the Ghaziabad – Meerut route

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03/06/2024

Delhi (Metro Rail News): The plantation work between Sahibabad station in Ghaziabad and Shatabdi Nagar station in Meerut is in its final stages. This initiative by the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC), the agency implementing the 82 km-long Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS), outlines its commitment to promoting sustainable development.

Officials have stated that work is underway to connect the Meerut (South) station with the Ghaziabad route. The RRTS project, spanning from Ghaziabad to Meerut, is being developed along the central strip of the Delhi-Meerut Road, which serves as a major route for commuters travelling to western Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

According to an official of NCRTC, the plantation work is 95% completed between Sahibabad and Shatabdi Nagar. Upon the completion of the project, the road and median will be handed over to the public works department. Until then, the contractor appointed by NCRTC will look after the maintenance of the plantation.

Officials also mentioned that about 50 % of saplings are being planted on the central strip, which lies below the viaduct from Sahibabad to Shatabdi Nagar. Meanwhile, the Duhai depot hosts the remaining half of the saplings, featuring about 75 different varieties, which include Juniperus chinensis, Ficus compacta, Ficus panda ball, Triangular palm, Silver Yucca, Plumeria (Champa), Kentia palm, Terminalia metallica, and Dracaena, and Golden bamboo.

From the project’s inception to its execution, NCRTC has adhered to sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. Beginning with the preliminary design phase, the organization has placed a strong emphasis on minimising carbon emissions throughout every stage of construction, ensuring that ecological considerations are integral to the entire process.

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Patna Metro: ABS Aircons Wins E&M Contract of Patna – Bihar Museums’ Tunnel

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Staff Reporter

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01/06/2024

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Patna (Metro Rail News ): ABS Aircon Engineers Pvt. Ltd. has emerged as the lowest bidder for installing Electrical & Mechanical (E&M) systems and other infrastructure within the walkway tunnel linking Patna Museum and Bihar Museum in Patna, Bihar.

This groundbreaking project entails the construction of a 1.5 km long underground passage connecting both museums, between Bailey Road and Chajju Bagh. To facilitate the work, an 8-meter diameter tunnel boring machine (TBM), will be deployed at a depth of 16.5 meters.

The tunnel’s ₹374.12 crore civil construction contract (Package PC-08R) was granted to Larsen & Toubro (L&T) in December 2023. Subsequently, in January 2024, DMRC floated the tender for its systems work (Package PE-09) with an estimated budget of ₹30.85 crore and a two-year completion timeline.

Firm	Bid value
ABS Aircon Engineers	36.15 crore
EFKON India	44.40 crore

Bids placed by firms

Scope of Contract:

The scope of the contract includes the design, detailed engineering, supply, installation, testing, and commissioning of Electrical and Mechanical Systems, fire detection and suppression systems, DG Sets, elevators, and Building Management System (BMS) work for the subway connecting Patna Museum and Bihar Museum in Patna.

The tunnel, equipped with air conditioning, will serve as an art gallery and provide transportation via battery-operated golf carts. On each end, entry/exit structures will include amenities such as a security checkpoint, a goods lift (service elevator), and restroom facilities.

Patna Metro Line 1

The 16.86 km Line 1 (Danapur Cantonment – Khemni Chak) features twin tunnels that will run underneath this subway tunnel. The clearance between these tunnels will be maintained at a vertical height of 6.5 meters.

ABS’ bid of Rs. 36.15 crore surpassed DMRC’s estimate by 16.80%, a moderate difference. Consequently, it’s probable that the contract will be awarded after some negotiation and discussion.

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Chennai Metro Rail to prepare DPR for MRTS stations’ makeover

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Staff Reporter

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31/05/2024

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Chennai Metro Rail to Prepare DPR MRTS Station Revamp

Chennai (Metro Rail News): Chennai Metro Rail is gearing up to prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) to enhance facilities and streamline commuter experiences at all Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) stations in the city.

With the forthcoming takeover of the MRTS by Chennai Metro Rail, the Chennai Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (CUMTA) is prioritising the improvement of station amenities and the promotion of commercial development. Comprehensive plans have been formulated to achieve these objectives.

An official of CUMTA stated, ‘We have tasked Chennai Metro Rail with preparing a detailed project report. It will constitute an exhaustive study identifying the deficiencies in the facilities necessary for commuters at each of the MRTS stations and will propose methods for improvement. For example, the report will outline areas requiring additional escalators and lifts, along with strategies for their enhanced maintenance.’

According to the officials from Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL), they plan to initiate the bidding process for the Detailed Project Report (DPR) once the model code of conduct concludes. Subsequently, they will select a consultant to conduct the study. The expected timeline for the submission of the report is approximately 4-5 months.

The report will include crucial factors like assessing the development of the neighbourhood areas surrounding each station so the commuters can easily walk down to the station. Additionally, CUMTA has formulated a blueprint aims to maximise the utilisation of station space and facilitate commercial development.

CUMTA is currently waiting for approval from the Railway Board for the takeover of MRTS which is expected to come within the next two months.

“We have completed the concept paper for the commercial development of 18 stations. Although the takeover process will be fully completed in a couple of years, we want commuters to gradually see improvements at stations. Therefore, we are doing the preparatory work and keeping things ready before the in-principle approval and the signing of the MoU,” stated the official as reported by The Hindu

In the coming years, the main priority will be to enhance the stations, aiming to enrich the overall passenger experience. The ultimate objective is to achieve integration between the MRTS and the Chennai Metro Rail system, thereby enhancing mobility and convenience for commuters.

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Pune Metro: 3 Coaches to arrive for Hinjewadi-Shivajinagar corridor next week

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Staff Reporter

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30/05/2024

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Metro Rail News (Pune): Officials from the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) expect three coaches to arrive next week for the Hinjewadi-Shivajinagar corridor of the Pune Metro. These coaches, manufactured and tested in Chennai, have already been dispatched. Over the next eight months, an additional 16-22 coaches are likely to be delivered.

Following the arrival of the first batch, PMRDA will initiate testing and trial runs to uphold all the safety measures before commercial operations begin on Line 3. The entire Hinjewadi-Shivajinagar corridor is expected to be operational by April 2025.

Pune Metro Line 3: Expanding the City’s Reach

The Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) is spearheading the development of Line 3. Covering a distance of 23.5 kilometres, Pune Metro Line 3 will be a crucial addition to the city’s public transportation network. This elevated line boasts 23 stations, strategically placed to connect key areas.

A Seamless Network

One of the most crucial aspects of Line 3 is its integration with the existing Pune Metro network. At the Shivajinagar station, Line 3 will connect with Lines 1 and 2. This integration will offer commuters a wider range of travel options and improved connectivity across Pune.

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Bangalore Metro: Driverless trainset to undergo signaling tests from June 7

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Staff Reporter

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30/05/2024

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Bangalore (Metro Rail News): The driverless train of Bangalore Metro’s Yellow Line is nearing completion of its stationary tests. Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) plans to initiate tests related to the integration of the signaling system with the driverless train from June 7, as reported by TNIE.

These tests form an integral part of the mainline testing process for the driverless train. As per the officials, commercial operations on the RV Road-Bommasandra Line (Yellow Line) are scheduled to commence in December.

Initially, BMRCL plans to run a trip every 20 minutes, totaling 57 round trips daily. All the necessary infrastructure is ready to start operations on the 18.82 km elevated Yellow line, which includes 16 stations. However, the launch has been delayed due to a hold-up in the delivery of driverless trains from the Chinese firm CRRC Nanjing Puzhen.

Currently, the trains are undergoing static tests, which involve signal and software checks, wiring, communication between different equipment, and functional checks.

Additionally, the driverless train underwent a simple test run between Bommasandra and Bommanahalli. BMRCL has already completed the electrification of the section between Bommanahalli and RV Road on May 20 to facilitate the testing of the mainline along the entire stretch.

In addition to signal integration, BMRCL will conduct tests on the third rail (the 750-volt track supplying power to the train) and train performance tests. Initially, the train will operate at a slow speed and later at the recommended speeds. These advanced trains can operate with or without an operator.

The second train is scheduled to arrive in August from China, the third in September, and three more by December. Out of these six trains, BMRCL plans to operate five and keep one as a backup. Only the prototype train will undergo intensive tests and require approval from the Research Design and Standards Organisation (RDSO) and the Railway Board.

Titagarh Rail Systems in West Bengal has established a robotic automatic assembly line to ensure timely delivery of trains for the Yellow Line of Bengaluru Metro, and it is likely to deliver a total of 15 driverless trains by March 2025.

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Pune Metro: Work commences on Pimpri – Nigdi extension

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Staff Reporter

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29/05/2024

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Pune (Metro Rail News): Work has kicked off on the long-awaited extended Pune Metro route from Pimpri to Bhakti Shakti Chowk in Nigdi. This advancement will ease commuting for the residents of Nigdi Pradhikaran.

The construction work of this 4.51km route will commence once soil testing is done. Anna Bansode, MLA, Pimpri assembly constituency MLA stated “Citizens from Pradhikaran constantly demanded the Metro extension from Pimpri to Nigdi. This demand was followed up continuously. Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar ensured it was met. Soon, Pimpri-Chinchwad residents can travel from Nigdi to Swargate by Metro.”

On October 23, 2023, the Central government gave approval for extending Pune Metro from Pimpri to Nigdi. Following the approval Maha Metro, the implementing authority of the Pune Metro project, floated the tender to carry out the work of this extension at Rs 910 crore. The construction work is slated to be finalised within 130 week from the approval date.

The total length of the Pune Metro extension from Pimpri to Bhakti-Shakti Chowk is 4.519 kilometres. Here’s a breakdown of the distance between stations:

PCMC to Chinchwad station: 1.463 km
Chinchwad to Akurdi station: 1.651 km
Akurdi to Nigdi station: 1.062 km
Nigdi station to Bhakti-Shakti Chowk: 975 meters

The new metro line will have stations in Chinchwad, Akurdi, Pradhikaran, and Bhakti-Shakti Chowk, improving connectivity and accessibility for residents in these areas.

Following the barricading work, digging has started at Bhakti-Shakti Chowk and Pawale Bridge. Initially, MahaMetro will conduct soil tests and finalize the route layout before they start constructing the pillars.

Pune Metro project

The central government approved the Pune Metro Phase 1 project in 2016. The project covers a total of 31.254 km distance and features 3 corridors. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the commercial operations in section 2 of Phase 1 on March 6, 2022. Currently, the 17.4 km long Purple Line (PCMC-Swargate) and the 15.7 km long Aqua Line (Vanaz-Ramwadi) are operational.

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Mumbai Metro 3: RDSO to inspect Aqua Line in the first week of June

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Staff Reporter

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28/05/2024

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Mumbai Metro 3 — Representational image only

Mumbai (Metro Rail News): The long-awaited Mumbai Metro Line 3, also known as the Aqua Line, has picked up steam. Following the successful heavy load tests on the Aqua Line, the Research, Design & Standards Organisation (RDSO) will arrive in the first week of June to assess the rolling stock, tracks, and other crucial factors for the first phase of the Metro 3.

Commercial operation in the first phase, which extends from Aarey to Bandra Kurla Complex, is expected to begin by July. To commence operation, the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC) will require clearance certificates, including independent safety assessment certificates.

Following this, the Commissioner for Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) will be called for the final inspection of the Aqua Line. Upon receiving approval from CMRS, the fleet of 19 metro trains will hit the tracks for public operations.

Mumbai Metro Line 3

Mumbai Metro Line 3, or Aqua Line, stands as Mumbai’s first fully underground metro line. It covers a total distance of 33.5 km from Aarey Colony, BKC to Cuffe Parade, featuring 27 stations (26 underground and 1 at grade).

Upon becoming fully operational, it is expected to cater to 1.7 million passengers daily with its 8-coach metro trains operating at a frequency of 3-4 minutes. The Aqua Line will connect major areas including 6 commercial business districts, 12 educational institutions, 30 employment offices, 10 transportation hubs, 11 major hospitals, and 25 religious and recreational centers.

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Dr Chander Shekhar Khare assumes the role of MD of HMRTC & Gurugram Metro Rail Ltd.

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Staff Reporter

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28/05/2024

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Haryana (Metro Rail News): Dr Chander Shekhar Khare has taken on the role of Managing Director for both the Haryana Mass Rapid Transport Corporation Ltd. and Gurugram Metro Rail Ltd.

A 2008 batch IAS officer, Dr. Khare brings extensive experience to these positions. In previous roles within the Haryana government, he served in prominent roles including Special Secretary and Director of the Science & Technology Department and the Human Resources Department.

Dr. Khare recently completed a Master of Development Practice at UC Berkeley where he served as a Joint Japan World Bank Scholar, focusing on development economics, energy, and sustainable development.

Moreover, his expertise in data analysis, data visualization, and sustainable development empowers him to handle complex and intricate projects effectively.

Dr. Khare has received the National Award twice for his contributions to good governance initiatives. His extensive field experience as an Additional Commissioner in Rohtak highlights his dedication to public service and effective governance.

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Chennai Metro: RITES Secures DPR Consultant Contract of Koyambedu-Avadi Corridor

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Staff Reporter

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28/05/2024

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Chennai (Metro Rail News): Last week, RITES Ltd. emerged as the lowest bidder to draft a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for Chennai Metro‘s new line that will link Koyambedu with Avadi.

This new elevated corridor will branch off from the 44.6 km long Line 5 (Madhavaram – Sholinganallur) which is part of the 116.1 km Phase 2 project. This new line will cover a total distance of 16.07 km and traverse through Thirumangalam, Mugappair and Ambattur.

In February 2024, Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) issued a call for bids to appoint the DPR consultant for this new Line, setting a 180-day deadline without disclosing the estimated cost.

In April 2024, CMRL opened the technical bids, revealing six bidders. During the evaluation, CMRL disqualified AECOM India – URS Scott Wilson India JV’s bid for non-compliance with the tender conditions.

L&T Infrastructure Engineering prepared the line’s detailed feasibility report in mid-2023, estimating the construction cost, with 15 planned elevated stations, at Rs. 6376.18 crore.

Firm	Bid Value
RITES	0.95 crore
Balaji RailRoad Systems	1.04 crore
SYSTRA MVA Consulting	1.15 crore
Aarvee Associates	1.26 crore
Urban Mass Transit Company	1.82 crore

Bids placed by firms

The DPR will shed light on the key aspects of the line, including its length, stations (including underground, elevated, and at-grade sections), route composition, station locations, depot, coach requirements, ridership projections, operational strategies, total cost estimation, and other crucial factors.

Chennai Metro Phase 2

The Tamil Nadu government greenlit the Chennai Metro Phase 2 project in April 2019. It features three new lines covering 116.1 km. In December 2018, RITES finalized the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for Phase 2. Chennai Metro Phase 2 is likely to be ready by 2026. With Phase 2 expected to be fully operational around 2030, Chennai’s metro network will expand to roughly 173 km in length.

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Chennai Metro: Aarvee Associates Secures DPR Consultant Contract for Line-4’s Extension

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Staff Reporter

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27/05/2024

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Metro Rail News (Chennai): Last week, Aarvee Associates Architects Engineers and Consultants Pvt. Ltd. emerged as the lowest bidder to draft a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Chennai Metro Line-4 extension from Poonamallee Bypass to Parandur Airport.

The construction is underway for Line 4 which stretches about 26.1km from Light House to Poonamallee Bypass as part of the 116.1 km Chennai Metro Phase 2.

In April 2023, Chennai Metro Rail Ltd. (CMRL) appointed a consultant to assess the feasibility of extending this line to Sriperumbudur. In the same year, the state government resolved to extend the line to Chennai’s new greenfield airport in Parandur.

Following the approval, CMRL issued a call for bids to appoint the DPR consultant in February 2024, setting a 180-day deadline without disclosing the estimated cost. When the technical bids were opened in April 2024, five bidders emerged. However, AECOM India – URS Scott Wilson India JV’s bid was disqualified due to non-compliance with the tender conditions.

Firm	Bid Value
Aarvee Associates	2.05 crore
SYSTRA MVA Consulting	2.14 crore
Balaji Railroad Systems	2.27 crore
Urban Mass Transit Company	3.10 crore

Bids placed by firms

The DPR aims to outline key aspects of the line, such as its length, route composition (including underground, elevated, and at-grade sections), station locations, depot specifications, coach requirements, ridership projections, operational strategies, total cost estimation, and other relevant factors.

Chennai Metro Phase 2

In 2019, the Tamil Nadu government approved the Chennai Metro Phase 2 project. It comprises three new lines covering 116.1 km. In December 2018, RITES finalized the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for Phase 2. Chennai Metro Phase 2 is likely to be completed and opened in stages starting from 2026 onwards. Upon the completion of Phase 2 around 2030 (estimated), Chennai’s metro network will extend to approximately 173 km in length.

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