Dadar Metro Station Construction Begins: Traffic Diversions Implemented from April 25

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25/04/2024

MUMBAI (Metro Rail News): The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (MMRCL) is set to commence construction work on the Dadar underground metro station as part of the Metro Line 3 project. Consequently, significant traffic diversions will come into effect from April 25, impacting crucial spots in Dadar like Steelman Junction, Senapati Bapat Road, and Gokhale Road.

Closure of Northbound Gokhale Road:

The northbound stretch of Gokhale Road, from Gadkari Chowk to Steelman Junction, will be closed to all vehicular traffic. However, the southbound lane will remain open as usual. Both directions will be designated as “no-parking” zones to ensure smooth traffic flow.

One-Way Route on Ranade Road:

Vehicles will be restricted from entering the Senapati Bapat Statue towards Steelman Junction on Ranade Road, as it will be converted into a one-way route.

Diversion Routes:

Vehicles proceeding from Portuguese Church and northbound on Gokhale Road will need to take a left turn at Steelman Junction. They will then proceed along Ranade Road, Dadasaheb Rege Road, and Gadkari Junction to reach their destination.
Vehicles heading towards Dadar TT will turn right at Steelman Junction, then proceed along Ranade Road, Paneri Junction, take a left turn along NC Kelkar Road, and finally reach Kotwal Garden.

Metro Line 3 Overview

The Metro Line 3, also known as Aqua Line by MMRCL, is a 33.5km long underground corridor stretching from Colaba to Bandra to SEEPZ. It comprises 27 key stations, of which 26 are underground and one at grade. The construction of other stations in Dadar will be at Sitladevi Temple in Mahim, Siddhi Vinayak in Dadar, and Worli.

With traffic diversions in place, motorists are likely to face increased congestion on already busy roads. The traffic diversion plan provided by the Mumbai traffic police will remain in effect until September this year. Integrated testing of trains is expected to begin soon on the Aarey Colony-Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) route, marking progress in the Metro Line 3 project.

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8 Firms submit bid for Feasibility Study of Namma Metro’s Extension to Tumakuru

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Staff Reporter

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25/04/2024

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BANGALORE (Metro Rail News): Eight consultancy firms have entered the race to conduct a feasibility study for the proposed Namma Metro extension from Madavara (Green Line) to Tumakuru. This extension would enhance Bangalore’s connectivity with neighbouring cities.

Following Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s announcement in the Karnataka budget for 2024-25. BMRCL plans to examine the extension of metro services to Tumakuru and Devanahalli, which are on the go.

Consultancy Firms in the Race

BMRCL officials confirm that well-known names such as RITES Limited, Systra MVA Consulting, and Aarvee Associates are among the eight bidders. The chosen consultant, tasked with preparing the feasibility study report for the 52-km corridor from Madavara to Tumakuru, will be selected after thorough technical and financial evaluations.

If the project is deemed feasible, it will be launched under a PPP model, Using public oversight and private efficiency to deliver on the ambitious plan.

Debates on Namma Metro’s Scope

While forward-thinking, the proposal is not without disagreement. Critics argue that metro systems are intended to serve intra-city needs rather than inter-city connections, leading to discussions about expanding the suburban rail network as an alternative.

Karnataka’s Home Minister, G Parameshwara, has passionately advocated for the extension of the metro to Tumakuru, his hometown. He has emphasized the importance of advancing with the project, even prior to the completion of the feasibility report and exploring alternative evaluations.

Alongside Tumakuru, feasibility studies for a broader network spanning 118 kms are underway. These stretches comprise Challaghatta and Bidadi, Silk Institute and Harohalli, Bommasandra and Attibele, Kalena Agrahara (Gottigere) to Kadugodi via Jigani, Anekal, Sarjapura, Varthur. The names of the bidders are not yet known.

Progress on Sarjapura Road-Hebbal Line

In related news, the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Sarjapura Road-Hebbal metro line, which includes 36 stations, is nearing completion. Submission to the state government is anticipated after the election code of conduct concludes.

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Kolkata Orange Line Metro Extension Awaits Safety Clearance; Test Runs to Begin

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Staff Reporter

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25/04/2024

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KOLKATA (Metro Rail News): Metro Railway is ready to commence test runs on the new 4.3 km stretch of the Orange Line’s extension beyond Ruby Crossing, covering four new stations starting this Saturday, despite awaiting a safety nod for the Metropolitan extension.

On March 28 and 29, the section, which is part of the New Garia-Airport Metro corridor, was inspected by Janak Kumar Garg, the Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety (CCRS). The findings led to a report highlighting the necessity for immediate action.

CCRS Inspection Report Demands Action

The media channels disclosed on March 31 that the CCRS was dissatisfied after the inspection. Recommendations included requesting a traffic block at Metropolitan Crossing to complete portal piers and construct a 100-meter stretch of viaduct.

Officials have indicated that the pending approval from the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) stems from the non-fulfilment of certain conditions outlined in CCRS Garg’s report.

Additionally, the CCRS underscored the need for a traffic block to allow the construction of foot overbridges (FOBs) essential for passenger access to the Metropolitan Metro station, also known as the Beliaghata station.

Orange Line Extension Details

The corridor’s 4.3km extension to Metropolitan covers four stations: VIP Bazar, Ritwik Ghatak, Barun Sengupta, and Beliaghata (Metropolitan). The development of this extension is keenly watched as it promises to enhance connectivity for commuters in Kolkata significantly.

As the Metropolitan extension’s trial runs to gear up to start, commuters and officials hope for a swift resolution to the safety concerns to operationalise this crucial metro segment fully.

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RVNL Wins ₹239 Crore Project for Advanced Signal System in Southern Railway

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Staff Reporter

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25/04/2024

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Salem Junction railway station, Headquarters Salem railway division

TAMILNADU (Metro Rail News): Rail Vikas Nigam Ltd. (RVNL) has been declared the lowest bidder for implementing the ABS system in the Southern Railway project, estimated at ₹239 crores. The Automatic Block Signalling (ABS) system, crucial in this project, is designed to manage train traffic by automating stop signals.

The technology enables consecutive trains to travel safely in the same direction, significantly reducing the possibility of collisions.

Project Details

RVNL will implement the ABS system across the Jolarpettai junction to the Erode junction stretch of Southern Railway’s Salem division (Salem division is one of the six divisions of the Southern Railway zone). The project aims for completion within 900 days, ensuring a swift and substantial upgrade to the current signalling mechanisms.

WhatsApp Image 2024 04 25 at 10.25.07 f85b9c8e

In addition to this project, Southern Railway has also selected RVNL’s joint venture with KRDCL for a ₹439 crore initiative. This JV, with RVNL owning 49% and KRDCL the majority at 51%, focuses on the redevelopment of the Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway station through an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) model, with a 42-month deadline for execution.

Market Response

Following the announcement, RVNL’s shares saw a noticeable rise, closing at ₹284.45 on the BSE, which is an increase of ₹7.15, or 2.58%.

These projects signify RVNL’s growing influence in the railway infrastructure sector, highlighting its role in modernising India’s rail systems for enhanced passenger safety and more efficient railway operations.

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RPP Infra Projects JV Secures Rs. 412.81 Cr. Contract for Raipur Rly Station Upgrade

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Staff Reporter

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24/04/2024

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RAIPUR (Metro Rail News): RPP Infra Projects Ltd., in collaboration with M/s V. Sathyamoorthy & Co., has been awarded a significant contract valued at Rs. 412.81 crore for the major upgradation of the Raipur Railway Station of SECR (South East Central Railway). The project will be executed under a joint venture, RPP-Sathyamoorthy JV, where RPP holds a 60% share and Sathyamoorthy 40%.

The upgradation of the Raipur Railway Station, a key component of the South East Central Railway’s infrastructure, is to be undertaken using an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) model. This initiative aligns with the central government’s Gati Shakti mission, aiming to holistically improve infrastructure to facilitate seamless movement and boost economic growth across the country.

As per the contract, its completion is mandated three years from the commencement date. The Railway has also outlined stringent performance security requirements to ensure timely and quality completion of the works.

RPP Infra Projects Ltd.

This project is expected to significantly enhance the capability and functionality of the Raipur Railway Station, thereby improving the travel experience for commuters and supporting increased rail traffic demand in the region. RPP Infra Projects Ltd. has noted this project as a part of their growing portfolio, which includes contracts worth over Rs. 3256.68 crores as of April 2024.

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Koyambedu to Avadi: Bids Received for DPR of New Chennai Metro Corridor

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Staff Reporter

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24/04/2024

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CHENNAI (Metro Rail News): Six consulting firms submit bids to draft the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the new metro corridor connecting Koyambedu—Avadi, northwest of Chennai. The 16.07 km elevated metro link will connect key areas, including Thirumangalam, Mugappair, and Ambattur. As per tentative plans, this corridor will include 15 elevated stations.

The plan is to construct it as a branch of Chennai Metro’s Line-5 (Madhavaram – Sholinganallur), which is part of the 116.1 km Chennai Metro Phase 2 project currently under construction.

Estimated Cost & DPR Bidding

Koyambedu—Avadi stretch feasibility has been thoroughly assessed, with a detailed feasibility report by L&T Infrastructure Engineering in mid-2023. It estimates the construction cost to be approximately Rs. 6376.18 crore.

The process for selecting a DPR consultant began in February 2024, with Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) setting a 180-day deadline for bid submissions. However, the financial estimate for this consultancy remains undisclosed.

Bidding Firms for DPR Consultancy

Aarvee Associates Architects Engineers and Consultants Pvt. Ltd.
AECOM India Pvt. Ltd.
Balaji Railroad Systems Pvt. Ltd. (BASRYL)
RITES Ltd.
SYSTRA MVA Consulting (India) Pvt. Ltd.
Urban Mass Transit Company Ltd. (UMTC)

These bids are currently under technical evaluation, a process expected to span a few months. Once the technical evaluation is concluded, the financial bids of the qualified firms will be opened, and the lowest bidder and likely consultant will be determined. The DPR will outline the line’s length, route composition (including underground, elevated, and at-grade sections), number and locations of stations, depot details, coach requirements, ridership projections, operational plan, total cost, and more.

Future Prospects

In line with CMRL’s strategic vision outlined in their September 2023 press release, the appointed DPR consultant will also explore potential extensions of the line from Avadi to Pattabiram. It will consider recent regional developments like the new TIDEL Information Technology Park, available land, and anticipated growth in the area.

If the tendering process follows the scheduled timeline, a consultant is expected to be appointed by late Q2 of 2024, i.e., June. The metro authorities might also share a preliminary draft of the DPR by the first quarter of 2025.

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India’s First Bullet Train Project on Track for 2026 Launch: Details Emerge on Progress

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Staff Reporter

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23/04/2024

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NEW DELHI (Metro Rail News): India’s ambitious bullet train project is moving forward at full steam, with the Railways and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announcing significant progress in the construction of stations along the route. The minister confirmed that the first section of the bullet train is slated to become operational by 2026, marking a major milestone in the country’s transportation infrastructure.

According to Minister Vaishnaw, over 290 kilometres of the planned route have been constructed, including bridges spanning eight major rivers. “The stations are approaching completion, with twelve currently under construction,” he stated during an interview with IANS. This progress underscores the government’s commitment to completing the project swiftly, even in the face of earlier setbacks.

Technical Challenges and Solutions

The design of the bullet train, which began in 2017, has presented several technical challenges, particularly concerning the train’s high-speed operation. “The design is complex due to the need to manage strong vibrations and the high-speed aerodynamics,” explained Vaishnaw. Engineers have had to carefully consider how to manage these factors, including the efficient transmission of electricity for the train’s operations.

The project has not been without its hurdles. The COVID-19 pandemic and political challenges, particularly with the previous government in Maharashtra, caused some delays. However, with these issues largely resolved, the project has picked up pace again.

Strategic Importance of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Corridor

The bullet train, which will eventually run between Mumbai and Ahmedabad, includes a 21-kilometre tunnel featuring a 7-kilometre undersea stretch — the first of its kind in India. The deepest point of this tunnel is 56 meters below ground. This corridor is not just a transportation project but a transformative initiative for mass transportation in India, utilising Japan’s advanced Shinkansen technology.

Economic and Environmental Impacts

Once operational, the bullet train is expected to provide a rapid, high-frequency service, significantly reducing travel time between two of India’s major cities. This will not only bolster economic growth but is also anticipated to have positive environmental impacts by reducing the reliance on more polluting travel methods.

The #BulletTrain project is advancing at a rapid pace! pic.twitter.com/9NyGdslFd0
— Ashwini Vaishnaw (मोदी का परिवार) (@AshwiniVaishnaw) April 24, 2024

A recent post by the Railways and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on X.

With the bullet train set to run its first section in 2026, India is on the brink of entering a new era of high-speed rail travel. The project promises to revolutionise how people travel across the region, providing a fast, efficient, and eco-friendly alternative to the traditional methods of transportation.

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Kolkata Metro: Underground Construction Begins for Mominpur-Esplanade Stretch

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Staff Reporter

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22/04/2024

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KOLKATA (Metro Rail News): The Kolkata Metro Railway announced the commencement of construction for the underground section of the Joka-Esplanade Metro Corridor, also known as the Purple Line, on April 20. This initiative will significantly enhance urban connectivity and ease transit across the city, particularly within the southern sectors.

The construction pertains to an 8.58 km underground stretch that forms part of the larger 15.08 km Joka-Esplanade corridor. This new section will facilitate direct connections between Mominpur and Esplanade, streamlining travel and access between these two key areas of Kolkata.

Technological Advances in Kolkata Metro

The tunnelling work is scheduled to begin at Khidderpore and will extend to Victoria (Memorial) station, where advanced tunnel boring machines (TBMs) will be employed for excavation. These TBMs are well known for their precision and minimal disturbance to the surrounding environments, ensuring a smooth continuation of daily activities in the area during construction phases.

Beyond improving transportation, the project is poised to generate numerous jobs and spur economic growth in the region. It is expected to attract investments, leading to new businesses and further infrastructural developments. This expansion supports skilled labour and opens opportunities for various professionals involved in the construction and operational phases.

Environmental Impact and Safety Enhancements

The underground segment promises substantial environmental benefits by reducing roadway congestion, thereby decreasing travel time and enhancing air quality. Furthermore, it offers a reliable transportation alternative during the rainy season, which is crucial given the area’s propensity for monsoon disruptions.

The Mominpur-Esplanade stretch is critical to Kolkata’s strategic urban development and transportation planning. With the ongoing efforts of the Kolkata Metro Railway, the city is on track to achieving a more connected and efficiently serviced urban framework.

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Mumbai Metro Line 3 Loaded Trials to Begin as Project Reaches 96% Completion

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Staff Reporter

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22/04/2024

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MUMBAI (Metro Rail News): The Mumbai Metro Line 3 is nearing completion of its development phase, with loaded trials on Phase 1 from Aarey to Bandra Kurla Complex commencing this week. This stage involves testing the train’s performance under conditions that simulate full passenger loads, ensuring safety and operational efficiency before its public debut.

The concept of ‘loaded trials’ means filling the train coaches with stone-filled gunny bags to approximate the weight of a fully occupied train. Under realistic conditions, this process is essential for assessing the train’s dynamics, such as speed, suspension, and energy consumption.

The trials will monitor aspects like coach oscillation on different track sections, including straight paths and curves, to ensure a smooth and safe ride for future passengers.

Enhanced Train Technology in Mumbai Metro

This Mumbai Metro features an advanced eight-car train setup with a 75% motor capacity, a notable increase from the 50% seen in previous lines. This enhancement aims to improve the train’s operational capabilities, particularly acceleration and handling. The Research, Design and Safety Organisation (RDSO) and the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) will carry out the project’s inspection process shortly after the completion of loaded trials.

Current Project Status

Currently, the Metro 3 project is 96% complete, with the remaining work focusing on aesthetic and functional enhancements at stations. The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MMRCL) boasts a fleet of 19 rakes, ample to handle the operational demands of this phase. Once operational, the line expects to serve approximately 17 lakh passengers daily across 260 services.

Connectivity and Integration Efforts

Officials highlight ongoing efforts to ensure that Metro 3 is not just a standalone project but part of a larger, integrated transport network. These efforts include the development of multimodal connections at stations, enhanced pedestrian facilities, and clear signage to guide commuters.

The line’s connectivity is further bolstered by the completion of the Aarey Depot link, which is essential for efficient train management and movement during the trials.

Future Developments and Impact

The focus is also on Phase 2, extending from BKC to Acharya Atre Chowk in Worli, which is already in an advanced completion stage. Moreover, preparations are underway to enable automatic train operations (ATO), which could potentially allow unmanned train operations, reflecting significant technological advancements in urban metro systems.

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CEG Test Emerges as Lowest Bidder for Geotechnical Contract of Delhi – Alwar RRTS Line

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Staff Reporter

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22/04/2024

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DELHI (Metro Rail News): CEG Test House And Research Centre Pvt. Ltd. (CEGTH) emerged as the lowest bidder for conducting geotechnical soil investigation work along the new alignment of the 164 km Delhi – Alwar RRTS (RapidX) line on NH-48 in Gurugram (Gurgaon). This contract is a significant step in the development of the National Capital Region Transport Corporation’s (NCRTC) Delhi – Dharuhera RRTS project.

Originally planned to link Delhi’s Sarai Kale Khan with SNB (Shahjahanpur – Neemrana – Behrod) in Rajasthan, the initial phase of the RRTS line has been amended to end at Dharuhera in Haryana, spanning 70.72 km and comprising 13 stations. The line’s route has been redirected along NH-48, with significant stations, including Cyber City (underground), IFFCO Chowk (elevated), Rajiv Chowk (underground), and Hero Honda Chowk (underground).

Geotechnical Investigation Scope

The geotechnical investigation contract awarded to CEG Test House and Research Centre involves studying the soil profile at the train maintenance depot at Dharuhera and along the revised alignment between Aerocity – Kherki Daula along NH-48.

NCRTC invited bids for this contract in January 2024, with a 180-day deadline and an estimated value of around Rs. 2.98 crore. Technical bids were opened in February.

Financial Bids Values

Bidders	Bid Value (Rs. Crore)
CEG Test House and Research Centre	2.20
Cengrs Geotechnica	2.53
Geomarine Dynamics India	3.11
Highway Engineering Magnitude Consortium	2.55
SKP Projects	3.35

This marks NCRTC’s fifth geotechnical investigation contract for this line, with past contracts covering various segments of the route, including Gurgaon to Dharuhera.

Route Details

As per NCRTC’s tender document, 48.35 km of the line’s route falls in Haryana and 22.37 km in Delhi. While the majority of the route in Delhi is underground, in Haryana, the line will mostly be elevated, except for a 16.28 km underground stretch.

In Haryana, the line will be elevated along NH-48, connecting from Sector 25 to Rajiv Chowk, from Kherki Daula to Manesar, and from Panchgaon to Dharuhera.

This geotechnical investigation marks a crucial step forward in the development of the Delhi – Dharuhera RRTS project, bringing the ambitious high-speed rail closer to reality.

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