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₹13,527 Crore Loan agreement signed by IRFC with L&T Metro Rail (Hyderabad)

Narendra Shah & Editorial Team
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₹13,527 Crore Loan agreement signed by IRFC with L&T Metro Rail (Hyderabad)

HYDERABAD (Metro Rail News): In a significant drive for urban rail financing the Indian Rail Finance Corporation (IRFC) has signed a term loan agreement with L&T Metro Rail (Hyderabad) Limited for ₹13,527 crore to refinance the debt obligations of the Hyderabad Metro Rail project. This marks a major refinancing transaction in India’s urban transit sector. 

This agreement follows the transfer of 100 per cent ownership of L&T Metro Rail (Hyderabad) Limited from Larsen & Toubro Limited to the Government of Telangana through Hyderabad Metro Rail Limited. This contract will refinance existing debt obligations, including non-convertible (NCDs), commercial papers and term loans, enabling an orderly exit for existing lenders while improving the project’s long-term financial sustainability.

The agreement was signed in the presence of IRFC CMD and CEO Manoj Kumar Dubey and Telangana Chief Secretary K.Ramakrishna Rao. Mr. Manoj Kumar, CMD & CEO, IRFC said that, this transaction reinforces IRFC’s growing capability to structure innovative, long-tenor financing solutions for nationally significant infrastructure assets. It also reinforces our commitment to supporting sustainable urban mobility through efficient capital mobilisation.

This contract is structured over a 20-year tenure with quarterly repayments, the refinancing replaces higher-cost debt with competitively priced long-term rupee financing. The facility carries no processing fees, commitment charges or prepayment penalties, making it an efficient and borrower-friendly refinancing mechanism. This move is set to materially strengthen the project’s financial flexibility, enabling the Government of Telangana to accelerate the planned expansion of Hyderabad’s metro network, including new corridors and enhanced connectivity. 

This transaction is supported by a robust credit enhancement framework, including an unconditional and irrevocable undertaking by the Government of Telangana for servicing all dues payable to IRFC, a state government guarantee, and an RBI-backed direct debit mandate.

Dubey further added: “This transaction demonstrates that large-scale urban infrastructure can be financed domestically through efficient, long-tenor funding structures aligned to project cash flows. IRFC stands ready to serve as a trusted domestic financing partner, channeling Indian savings into India’s infrastructure on Indian terms.

The Hyderabad metro Phase-1 is the world’s largest metro rail project developed under the public-private partnership (PPP) model, spanning around 69.2 kilometers across 3 metro corridors and serves more than 5 lakh passengers on a daily basis. This agreement marks as a crucial step towards a more sustainable, seamless and efficient travel across the city.

Also Read: DMRC floats DDC tender for 3 elevated stations of Phase 5(A)

DMRC floats DDC tender for 3 elevated stations of Phase 5(A)

Narendra Shah & Editorial Team
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DMRC floats DDC tender for 3 elevated stations of Phase 5(A)

DELHI (Metro Rail News): Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has invited open e-tenders for appointments of a Detailed Design Consultant (DDC) for 3 elevated stations under the Sarita Vihar Depot to Kalindi Kunj corridor of Delhi Metro Phase 5(A). The estimated cost of the contract is around Rs 2.40 crore. The tender marks progress on the upcoming metro corridor in South Delhi.

Tender Information

Tender NumberCPM-6/ECDD-01/2026 
Tender TypeOpen e-Tender
Estimated CostRs 2.40 crore (inclusive of GST) 
Tender SecurityRs 2.40 lakh
Completion Period 48 months
Tender Fee Rs 23,600
Pre-Bid Meeting 29 May 2026, 11:00 hrs. 
Bid Submission Window4 June 2026 (09:00 hrs) to 10 June 2026 (15:00 hrs) 
Technical Bid Opening11 June 2026, 15:00 hrs. 

Scope of Work

The consultant will prepare detailed architectural and building services designs for the three elevated metro stations. The scope includes electrical and mechanical (E&M) works for the stations. The stations covered under the contract are Sarita Vihar Depot, Madanpur Khadar, and Kalindi Kunj interchange station. 

About the project

The Sarita Vihar Depot to Kalindi Kunj corridor is part of Delhi Metro Phase 5(A), which aims to improve metro connectivity in South Delhi and nearby areas. The corridor will include new elevated stations and interchange facilities to support smoother passenger movement and better integration with the existing metro network.

Also Read: Public-Private Partnership model suggested for Bengaluru’s green line extension

Public-Private Partnership model suggested for Bengaluru’s green line extension

Narendra Shah & Editorial Team
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Public-Private Partnership model suggested for Bengaluru’s green line extension

BENGALURU (Metro Rail News): In a DPR prepared by Aarvee Engineering Consultants, it was proposed that the 59.6-km metro extension from Madavara (Namma Metro’s Green Line northern terminal) to Tumakuru be prepared under a PPP model, particularly the BOT framework where the private sector partner will be responsible for the design, finance and the construction and operating of the metro system for a concession period of 25-30 years, after which the operations control and the ownership will be given to the government. 

The DPR was submitted by Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) to the Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara. It is currently under discussion and any further decisions related to the construction of this elevated corridor will be taken in the cabinet meeting. It was earlier announced by the CM that a feasibility study would be conducted and around 3.5 crore was spent on the report. The report suggests that this project is highly feasible. 

The Bengaluru–Tumakuru Metro Corridor consists of 16 elevated stations along the route from Madavara (BIEC) to Tumakuru via Nelamangala, Dabaspet, and Kyathasandra stations. Tumakuru lies nearly 70 km from Bengaluru’s city centre and is already part of multiple connectivity plans. The estimated cost of this corridor  is around Rs. 20,000 crore. This line is a long awaited corridor and is expected to serve around 3 lakhs passengers daily.

Also Read: Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project reaches new milestone as second TBM cutterhead lowered near Mumbai

Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project reaches new milestone as second TBM cutterhead lowered near Mumbai

Narendra Shah & Editorial Team
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Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project reaches new milestone as second TBM cutterhead lowered near Mumbai

DELHI (Metro Rail News): The Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project moved a step ahead after engineers lowered the cutterhead of the second Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) at Sawli near Ghansoli in Maharashtra. This giant machine will help build the 21 km underground tunnel section near Mumbai. Officials plan to start tunneling work from Sawali towards Vikhroli in July 2026 after completing final assembly and testing. 

Project Snapshot

DetailsInformation
ProjectMumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train
Tunnel Length21 km
Location Sawli (Ghansoli), Maharashtra 
Tunnel DirectionSawli to Vikhroli
Cutterhead Diameter13.6 meters
Cutter Weight350 tonnes

Second TBM enters final assembly stage

Engineers lowered the huge cutterhead at the launch shaft in Sawli. This marks the last major step before the full assembly of the TBM. Earlier this week, officials lowered the cutterhead for the first TBM at Vikhroli. Both machines will now go through,

  • Final assembly
  • Testing and commissioning 
  • System checks before tunneling starts

Officials expect the initial tunnel drive to begin in the first week of July 2026. 

The TBM has a cutterhead  diameter of 13.6  meters. It can dig a single large tunnel that will carry both up and down bullet train tracks. The cutterhead includes 84 cutter discs, 124 scrapers and 16 bucket lips. These parts help the machine cut through soil and rock while clearing debris during excavation. 

Key details about the TBMs 

FeaturesDetails
Number of TBMs2
Weight of TBM 13,080 tonnes
Weight of TBM 23,184 tonnes
TBM TypeMix shield/ Slurry-based
Length of each TBM95.32 meters

Each TBM includes several major systems such as cutter wheel, main bearing, jaw crusher, main shield, tail shield, and four specialised gantries. The machines can run at a cutterhead speed of up to 4 RPM and dig up to 49 mm per minute. 

The underground stretch near Mumbai remains one of the most challenging parts of the bullet train project because of dense urban areas and difficult ground conditions. Officials are using advanced slurry based TBMs to carry out tunnelling safely and smoothly. 

Also Read: Indian Railways approves Rs 238 crore safety works on Jammu – Katra route

Indian Railways approves Rs 238 crore safety works on Jammu – Katra route

Narendra Shah & Editorial Team
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Indian Railways approves Rs 238 crore safety works on Jammu – Katra route

DELHI (Metro Rail News): Indian Railways has approved Rs 238 crore worth of safety and protection works on Jammu – Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra rail section. The project will strengthen tunnels, bridges and hill slopes along this important railway route. The Jammu – Katra section passes through difficult hilly terrain and often faces problems due to bad weather and geological conditions. Indian Railways officials said the new works will improve safety and make train operations more reliable. 

Project Snapshot

Details Information
Project Safety and protection works on  Jammu – Katra section
Cost Rs 238 crore
Railway ZoneNorthern Railway
Key worksTunnel repair, slope protection, bridge safety works

The approved project includes several safety and rehabilitation works across vulnerable locations on the route. These include: 

  • Slope stabilisation works
  • Tunnel rehabilitation 
  • Treatment of water seepage inside tunnels
  • Other safety measures along the rail corridor

Railway officials carried out detailed inspections of tunnels, bridges and hill cuttings before approving the project. 

Route faces tough terrain challenges

The Jammu – Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra route runs through mountains and difficult terrain. Heavy rainfall, unstable slopes and extreme weather conditions often create operational challenges. Despite these conditions, Indian Railways has continued improving infrastructure on the route through regular upgrades and maintenance. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said that the project reflects the government’s focus on safe and dependable railway connectivity in challenging regions. 

Important route for pilgrims

The Jammu – Katra rail section serves lakhs of passengers travelling to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine every year. The route also plays an important role in regional connectivity. Indian Railways officials said that the new protection works will strengthen the line and reduce risks in vulnerable areas.  

Also Read: Indian Railways approves Rs 993 cr Arakkonam – Chengalpattu rail project to boost Chennai Suburban network

Discover how AI is bringing the next phase of sustainable urban rail mobility for Viksit Bharat at InnoMetro 2026, India’s prime exhibition and conference for metro & railways, which is going to be held on 21-22 May 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.

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Indian Railways approves Rs 993 cr Arakkonam – Chengalpattu rail project to boost Chennai Suburban network

Narendra Shah & Editorial Team
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Indian Railways approves Rs 993 cr Arakkonam – Chengalpattu rail project to boost Chennai Suburban network

CHENNAI (Metro Rail News): Indian Railways has approved the Rs 993 crore Arakkonam – Chengalpattu doubling project in Tamilnadu. The 68 km project will strengthen Chennai’s suburban rail network and improve train movement on one of the city’s busiest corridors. The route forms part of Chennai’s circular suburban rail network connecting Chennai Beach, Tambaram, Chengalpattu and Arakkonam. Railway officials said that the project will reduce congestion and improve punctuality as train traffic continues  to rise. 

Project Overview

DetailsInformation 
Project Arakkonam – Chengalpattu Doubling
Length68 km
CostRs 993 crore
Zone Southern Railway
PurposeImprove suburban and freight train movement

The existing double-line section already handles heavy traffic every day. Indian Railways is expecting the demand to grow further in the coming years. The new doubling work will reduce train delays, improve punctuality, increase suburban train frequency and improve operational efficiency. Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said that the project will ease pressure on the Chennai suburban network and improve both passenger and freight movement. 

Key industrial area to benefit

The corridor connects several major industrial and manufacturing hubs, including:

  • Mahindra World City
  • Sriperumbudur
  • Oragadam
  • Irungattukottal 

The route will also support movement of cement, automobiles, food grains and iron and steel. Officials said the upcoming Parandur Airport project near Kancheepuram also increases the  importance of the rail corridor. 

Part of bigger Chennai Rail expansion

According to Indian Railways, the project forms part of a larger infrastructure plan to expand Chennai’s suburban rail network by adding more  tracks on busy commuter routes. Indian Railways is expecting that additional tracks will support faster and smoother train operations across the region.

Also Read: Namo Bharat expansion to connect Rajasthan with Delhi 

Discover how AI is bringing the next phase of sustainable urban rail mobility for Viksit Bharat at InnoMetro 2026, India’s prime exhibition and conference for metro & railways, which is going to be held on 21-22 May 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.

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Namo Bharat expansion to connect Rajasthan with Delhi 

Narendra Shah & Editorial Team
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Namo Bharat expansion to connect Rajasthan with Delhi 

DELHI (Metro Rail News): Rajasthan is set to become part of the Namo Bharat network as work moves ahead on the Delhi-Gurugram–SNB-Alwar RRTS corridor. The semi high-speed rail line will connect Alwar with New Delhi through a modern regional transit system. The project moved forward after Rajasthan and Haryana agreed on the corridor plan. Once ready, Namo Bharat trains will run between Delhi and Alwar, giving faster and smoother travel across the NCR region. 

Project Snapshot

Details Information
ProjectDelhi-Gurugram-SNB-Alwar RRTS Corridor
NetworkNamo Bharat
Total LengthAround 196 km
Rajasthan Stretch91 km
Stations in Rajasthan6
Top Speed160 kmph
Main HubSarai Kale Khan, Delhi

The corridor will begin from Sarai Kale Khan in Delhi and pass through Munirka, Aerocity, Gurugram, Bawal, SNB, Khairthal, and Alwar. Another section from SNB will extend towards  Sotanalat through Neemrana and Behror. The corridor is going to improve travel between Delhi and major industrial towns in Rajasthan and Haryana. 

Big relief for daily travel

The new RRTS line will give faster travel between Delhi and Rajasthan. Trains will run on the dedicated elevated tracks, so passengers will avoid road traffic and long highway delays. The corridor will also improve travel for people working in industrial areas like Bhiwadi, Neemrana and Behror. It is also expected that the project could support new industries, jobs and business growth in the region. 

The Delhi-Alwar corridor forms part of the larger Namo Bharat network planned for the National Capital Region. The first phase includes three corridors,

  • Delhi – Ghaziabad – Meerut
  • Delhi – Gurugram – SNB – Alwar
  • Delhi – Panipat – Karnal

Namo Bharat trains on this route will run at speeds up to 160 kmph. Officials said that trains  can travel nearly three times faster than normal metro services. 

Strong multimodal connectivity planned

Sarai Kale Khan will work as the main  interchange station for all Namo Bharat corridors. Passengers will get direct connectivity with Delhi Metro, Railway station, Airports and Inter-state bus terminals. The network will also allow smooth movement between different RRTS corridors without changing systems.

Also Read: Rs 962 crore Kiul – Jhajha 3rd rail line approved by Indian Railways on busy Howrah –  Delhi route

Discover how AI is bringing the next phase of sustainable urban rail mobility for Viksit Bharat at InnoMetro 2026, India’s prime exhibition and conference for metro & railways, which is going to be held on 21-22 May 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.

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Rs 962 crore Kiul – Jhajha 3rd rail line approved by Indian Railways on busy Howrah –  Delhi route

Narendra Shah & Editorial Team
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Rs 962 crore Kiul – Jhajha 3rd rail line approved by Indian Railways on busy Howrah –  Delhi route

DELHI (Metro Rail News): Indian Railways has approved a new third railway line between Kiul and Jhajha in Bihar. The 54 km project will cost around Rs 962 crore and increase train capacity on the busy Howrah – Delhi route. The project will improve train movement on a section that already handles heavy passenger and freight traffic everyday. Indian Railways expects the new line to reduce congestion and improve punctually. 

Project overview

DetailsInformation
ProjectKiul – Jhajha 3rd Line
Length54 km
CostRs 962 crore
StateBihar
RouteHowrah – Delhi High Density Corridor
ProposeIncrease capacity and reduce congestion

The current double line section between Kiul and Jhajha handles more traffic than its ideal capacity. Indian Railways officials said that train movement on this route will continue to increase in the coming years. The third line will create extra space for both passenger and freight trains. This will make train operations smoother and reduce delays. The project will also improve connectivity between Patna and Kolkata. 

Ashwini Vaishnaw calls it important for rail growth

According to the PIB release, Indian Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the project will improve operational flexibility and support smoother movement of trains on the Howrah – Delhi Corridor. He said the new line will strengthen trade links and support industrial growth in the region. 

The Kiul – Jhajha section connects several important industrial and logistics hubs. The route supports freight movement linked to, 

  • Kolkata and Haldia ports
  • Raxaul and Nepal border trade
  • Barh Super thermal Power Project 
  • Jawahar STPP
  • Birganj Inland Container Depot

Indian Railways has included this section under its high traffic density network because of the large number of trains running on it daily. 

How the project will help

Indian Railways officials said that the additional line will improve train punctuality and reduce congestion. It will increase carrying capacity and support faster freight movement. They further said that the line will also improve reliability of rail services. The project will also strengthen passenger movement between eastern and northern India. 

Indian Railways continues to upgrade high density routes across the country as passenger and freight demand rises. Officials believe the Kiul – Jhajha line will provide long term support for smoother train operations and better logistics movement  on one of India’s busiest rail corridors.

Also Read: Centre plans Water Metro services in 18 cities, draft policy sent for review

Discover how AI is bringing the next phase of sustainable urban rail mobility for Viksit Bharat at InnoMetro 2026, India’s prime exhibition and conference for metro & railways, which is going to be held on 21-22 May 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.

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Centre plans Water Metro services in 18 cities, draft policy sent for review

Narendra Shah & Editorial Team
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Centre plans Water Metro services in 18 cities, draft policy sent for review

DELHI (Metro Rail News): The central government has started planning Water Metro Services in 18 cities across the country. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said Guwahati will be part of the first phase along with Srinagar, Patna, Varanasi, Ayodhya and Prayagraj. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has also circulated the Draft National Water Metro Policy 2026 for consultation with different ministries and state governments. 

Project Snapshot

Details Information
Project National Water Metro Programme
Cities Planned18
Phase 1 CitiesGuwahati, Srinagar, Patna, Varanasi, Ayodhya, Prayagraj
Assam Cities in Phase 1Tezpur and Dibrugarh
Current StatusDraft policy circulated
ModelBased on Kochi Water Metro

The central government now wants to expand the success of Kochi Water Metro to other parts of the country. The project plans to use rivers and waterways for public transport in cities. Officials believe this can  reduce traffic on roads and offer a cleaner and cheaper travel option.

Sarbananda Sonowal said Water Metro projects cost less compared to many large transport systems because they use existing waterways. He said that electric and hybrid terries can reduce fuel costs and pollution while giving passengers a smooth travel experience. The minister also asked the government to study and draft policy and share their suggestions. 

What the policy will include

The proposed Water Metro systems will work for both daily commuters and tourists. The project will include,

  • Electric and hybrid terries
  • Jatties and floating pontoons
  • Passenger terminals
  • Charging stations
  • Navigation systems
  • Integration with metro, rail and bus networks

Officials are also planning to standardise vessel design and safety systems across all cities. 

How cities will be selected

According to the ministry, priority will go to cities with, 

  • Proper waterways
  • High population
  • Strong travel demand
  • Tourist movement

The government may also relax conditions for cities where the project can reduce road congestion or improve connectivity in remote areas. 

Reports are ready for most cities

The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) asked Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) to conduct feasibility studies for 18 cities in February 2015. Officials have already completed site visits in all locations. Draft reports are ready for 17 cities. The Lakshadweep report is still pending. The ministry has already accepted reports for Srinagar, Patna, Guwahati, Varanasi, and Ayodhya. 

The government is also discussing several funding models, including,

  • Joint funding by Centre and States
  • Fully state funded projects
  • Public Private Partnership (PPP) projects
  • Fully Centre funded projects

Officials also want to keep long term operating costs low through better planning and efficient fleet management. 

Focus on local culture and green transport

Sonowal mentioned that terminals and other infrastructure should reflect local culture and architecture. He also said that authorities should involve students and local communities to spread awareness about water transport. The ministry is planning to highlight fuel savings and environmental benefits as major advantages of the project. If the project moves forward as planned, Water Metro services could change urban travel in many Indian cities by offering cleaner, faster and less crowded transport options.

Also Read: KRCL floats Rs 913.77 crore tender for Vizhinjam Port rail connectivity project

Discover how AI is bringing the next phase of sustainable urban rail mobility for Viksit Bharat at InnoMetro 2026, India’s prime exhibition and conference for metro & railways, which is going to be held on 21-22 May 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.

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KRCL floats Rs 913.77 crore tender for Vizhinjam Port rail connectivity project

Narendra Shah & Editorial Team
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KRCL floats Rs 913.77 crore tender for Vizhinjam Port rail connectivity project

DELHI (Metro Rail News): Konkan Railway Corporation Limited has invited bids for the construction of a broad-gauge rail link. It will connect Balaramapuram Railway Station to the Vizhinjam International Seaport in Kerala. The estimated cost of the project is around Rs 913.77 crore. The tender marks a major step toward providing direct railway connectivity to the upcoming deep-water port. 

Tender Information

Information Details
Tender No.CO-PD-I-NP-VISL-Tender-01 
Tender TypeOpen tender
Bidding SystemTwo Packet System 
Estimated Cost913.77 crore
Completion Period36 months
Earnest Money Deposit Rs 2 crore
Bid Validity180 days
Pre Bidding Meeting08 June 2026, 15:00 PM
Bidding Start Date27 July 2026 
Tender Submission Deadline10 August 2026

Scope of Work

The contract includes design & Construction of Broad-Gauge Single Line Railway Siding between Balaramapuram Railway Station on Southern Railway to Vizhinjam International Seaport, including Civil Engineering Works comprising a 9 km long tunnel, 0.43 km long adit tunnel. The scope also covers earthwork, bridges, ballastless track, and permanent way works. Overhead electrification, power supply, signalling, and telecom systems are included in the package. Integrated tunnel communication, PA systems will also be installed. The entire project will be executed on an Engineering, Procurement and Construction basis. 

The proposed rail rail corridor will span around 9.5 km. It is aimed at improving cargo movement between the seaport and the Indian Railways network. 

Also Read: Ashwini Vaishnaw launches new Bengaluru – Mumbai express, Vande Bharat Sleeper on the way

Discover how AI is bringing the next phase of sustainable urban rail mobility for Viksit Bharat at InnoMetro 2026, India’s prime exhibition and conference for metro & railways, which is going to be held on 21-22 May 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.

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