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

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24/04/2024

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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DB and SYSTRA Submit Bid for MAHSR Ticketing Consultant Contract

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Staff Reporter

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22/04/2024

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NEW DELHI (Metro Rail News): DB Engineering & Consulting GmbH and SYSTRA MVA Consulting (India) Pvt. Ltd. are the only firms bidding for the Ticketing System consultant contract. The contract comprises the 508-kilometre Mumbai—Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (MAHSR) project.

NHSRCL had invited bids for this consultancy contract in November 2023. The speculated contract value is around Rs. 9.04 crore, and the duration is 365 days. Technical bids were opened in February, revealing DB and SYSTRA as the only contenders for the contract.

The appointed consultant will study existing Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) systems worldwide to recommend the most suitable option for the National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL). Additionally, they will prepare cost estimates for the ticketing system and assist NHSRCL in the bidding process, from bid invitations to bid evaluations. Finally, they will be responsible for drafting and signing the contract agreement.

tender complete WATERMARKED page 0001 — Tender Document’s first page

The selection of a consultant for the Ticketing System is a significant milestone in the MAHSR project, which aims to connect Mumbai and Ahmedabad, reducing travel time between the two major cities and boosting economic growth in the region.

The technical bids are currently undergoing evaluation, and upon completion, the financial bids of the technically qualified bidders will be opened to determine the lowest bidder and the likely consultant for NHSRCL.

Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (MAHSR)

The Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail project is a 508.17 km under-construction high-speed rail line connecting Mumbai, Maharashtra, with Ahmedabad, Gujarat, through 12 stations. The project is being executed by the National High-Speed Rail Corporation Ltd. (NHSRCL) and is expected to reduce travel time between the two cities to less than two hours. The project’s first section is expected to open in 2026, and the entire line is estimated to cost Rs. 1.1 lakh crore (US$15 billion).

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Knorr-Bremse AG Acquires Alstom’s North American Conventional Rail Signalling Business

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Staff Reporter

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20/04/2024

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Knorr-Bremse AG Expands Rail Portfolio with Acquisition of Alstom Signaling North America’s Conventional Rail Signalling Business

MUNICH (Metro Rail News): Knorr-Bremse AG, a manufacturer of braking systems and a leading provider of other rail and commercial vehicle systems announces its acquisition of Alstom Signaling North America’s conventional rail signalling technology business on April 19, 2024. The acquisition marks Knorr-Bremse’s entry into the control, command, and signalling (CCS) segment, a strategic move to drive profitable growth and expand its technological competence in the rail industry.

Knorr-Bremse AG Entered into the Highly Attractive CCS Segment

Knorr-Bremse’s acquisition of Alstom Signaling North America’s business positions the company as one of the US market leaders in the CCS segment. This move aligns with Knorr-Bremse’s ‘BOOST 2026’ strategy program to enhance its market presence and drive innovation.

Marc Llistosella, Chief Executive Officer of Knorr-Bremse AG, commented on the acquisition: “This acquisition is good for Knorr-Bremse and will drive our profitable growth further. With it, we are not just building on our highly profitable rail business. Rather, we will also become one of the US market leaders in North America in the rail control, command, and signalling segment, or CCS for short.”

A Strategic Fit for Knorr-Bremse

The acquisition marks a significant milestone in Knorr-Bremse’s evolution from a supplier of vehicle systems to a provider of comprehensive rail ecosystem solutions.

Dr. Nicolas Lange, member of the Knorr-Bremse AG Executive Board, emphasised the importance of the acquisition, stating, “For Knorr-Bremse, the acquisition of Alstom Signaling North America means a successful entry into the CCS segment. The CCS market is of approximately €20 billion globally, making it a highly attractive rail segment.”

Key Details of the Acquisition

– Purchase Price: The acquisition was finalised at approximately €630 million, comprising a mid-double-digit million EUR amount for additional anticipated and highly profitable project ventures.

– Financial Performance: Alstom Signaling North America reported revenues of about €300 million and an EBIT margin of approximately 16% in the past fiscal year.

– Expected Closure: The transaction is expected to close during the summer of 2024, subject to customary conditions, including regulatory approval.

Future Prospects and Synergies

The acquisition enables Knorr-Bremse to offer a comprehensive CCS technology platform to operators and system providers in North America. Moreover, it enhances the company’s standing in the digitalisation sector by granting access to a vast amount of infrastructure data that can be provided as a data service or through “software as a service” offerings.

Alstom’s Response

Alstom, a global leader in smart and sustainable mobility, sees this transaction as an important step in implementing its deleveraging plan.

Henri Poupart-Lafarge, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Alstom, stated, “We are pleased to sign this agreement, which marks an important step in the implementation of our action plan.”

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Enia Wins Package DDC-03 Under Nagpur Metro Phase 2

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Staff Reporter

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20/04/2024

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NAGPUR (Metro Rail News): Enia Design Pvt. Ltd., a joint venture between L&T and KPMG, has secured the Detailed Design Consultant Package DDC-03 for Phase 2 of the Nagpur Metro. The technical bidding for the Contract, valued at ₹5.20 crore, was opened in December 2023. Enia Design Pvt. Ltd. will provide detailed design consultancy services for eight elevated stations along the Orange Line’s southern extension, spanning from Jamtha to Butibori.

Bidders and their Bids for DDC-03

Companies	Bid Value (Rs. Crore)
Enia Design Pvt. Ltd.	3.08
Composites Combine Technocrats Pvt. Ltd.	3.50
STUP Consultants Pvt. Ltd.	3.96
Ayesa India Pvt. Ltd.	4.40
TYPSA India Pvt. Ltd.	10.64

Scope of the Contract

The scope of the contract encompasses the design of the following elevated stations: Ashokvan, Dongargaon, Mohgaon, Meghdoot MIDC, Butibori Police Station, MHADA Colony, MIDC KEC, and MIDC ESR.

Enia Design Pvt. Ltd. will be responsible for producing and proposing alternate designs for all civil, architectural, building services, electrical, and mechanical works at these stations.

Nagpur Metro's Phase II Map — Nagpur Metro’s Phase II Map

More About the Project

This contract was part of the larger Phase 2 project of the Nagpur Metro, covering a distance of 43.8 km. Six design and engineering firms submitted bids for the DDC-03 contract, which was tendered by Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. (Maha-Metro) in November 2023. The estimated duration of the consultancy is three years.

Nagpur Metro Phase 2, a 43.8 km project costing ₹6,708 crore, aims to extend existing lines to Kanhan, Butibori MIDC, Transport Nagar, and Hingna, providing better rural connectivity. The corridors include Automotive Square to Kanhan (13 km, 12 stations), MIHAN to Butibori MIDC ESR (18.7 km, 10 stations), Prajapati Nagar to Transport Nagar (5.5 km, 3 stations), and Lokmanya Nagar to Hingna (6.6 km, 7 stations).

The project, expected to cost ₹6,717 crore, will take four years after government sanction. Phase 1 progress is on schedule, and once Phase 2 is complete, Nagpur will have a total metro network of about 84 km with 70 stations.

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Kochi Water Metro Ltd (KWML) Set to Launch Ferry Service to Fort Kochi

By

Narendra Shah

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20/04/2024

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Kochi_Water_Metro_Boat_at_High_Court_Boat_Jetty

KOCHI (Metro Rail News): Kochi Water Metro Ltd (KWML) is all set to inaugurate its ferry service to Fort Kochi this Sunday, coinciding with the one-year anniversary of its operations. This eagerly anticipated launch follows the successful completion of trials for the new ferry, provided by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), along with the readiness of the terminal’s construction and ticketing system.

Ferry Service to Fort Kochi

The new service aims to facilitate smoother connections between West Kochi and the city center, potentially easing traffic congestion on the Ernakulam-West Kochi route. Designed with a focus on the cultural significance of the heritage-rich area, the Fort Kochi Water Metro Terminal boasts several unique features. Notably, the pontoons at the terminal are adapted to its proximity to the sea and shipping channel, using six one-meter diameter piles for enhanced stability, compared to the typical two-pile setup at other terminals.

This route is not only a boon for daily commuters but also enhances the accessibility for the influx of both domestic and international tourists to Fort Kochi, known for its picturesque Chinese fishing nets and colonial architecture. Multilingual signage in Malayalam, Hindi, English, Spanish, German, and French caters to the diverse visitor demographics, ensuring a welcoming experience for all.

The launch of the KWML ferry service to Fort Kochi is set to transform local and tourist travel dynamics in the region. By providing a direct, scenic route to one of Kerala’s premier historical sites, KWML supports the city’s broader goals of boosting tourism and reducing urban traffic, marking a significant step forward in Kochi’s transportation infrastructure.

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