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Railway Minister Inspects Howrah Metro Station: India’s Deepest Station Set to Redefine Underground Commuting

22/06/2023

KOLKATA (Metro Rail News): On 21 June 2023, Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw inspected the Howrah Maidan to Esplanade corridor of Kolkata’s East-West Metro (Green Line), which is about to be operational by the end of this year.

During the visit, Vaishnaw reassured the Kolkata’s Bowbazar district residents that their worries are being considered following three instances of subsidence and damage to homes in four years due to tunnelling work for constructing a Metro line.

Following an inspection of Howrah Maidan station, the minister conducted a trolley inspection through a tunnel and arrived at Howrah station, India’s deepest Metro station, with a depth of 33 metres (108 ft) and four underground levels.
He also inspected an underwater tunnel built 16 metres (52 feet) underneath the Hooghly River. Mr Vaishnaw expressed his delight with the progress of the work, calling it an engineering masterpiece. The minister also addressed the subsidence difficulties at Bowbazar, preventing the entire line from Howrah Maidan to Sector V, Saltlake, from being commissioned.

Mr. Vaishnaw told reporters, “The General Manager of Kolkata Metro is constantly meeting residents of Bowbazar.” Whether it is alternative construction or on-the-ground safety measures, inhabitants of Bowbazar are always engaged.” He added, “I will request that General Manager revisit Bowbazar, hold a camp, and explain the situation to residents in detail,”.
Over ten residences developed cracks in October last year, the third incidence in four years owing to tunnelling work for the Metro corridor.

Two buildings fell, and numerous others developed cracks in the Bowbazar neighbourhood in September 2019 after the underground tunnel-boring equipment struck an aquifer. Similar problems have been observed in May and October 2022.

When completed, the corridor will connect the twin towns of Howrah and Kolkata and handle 6.7 lakh passengers daily. A section of the line from Sealdah Station to Saltlake is already in service.

Apart from visiting Kolkata, Railway Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw examined the Balasore Station renovation plan and talked about the development strategies. Additionally, he carried out a Section Inspection between Jaleswar and Kharagpur and examined station renovation projects at Jaleswar and Kharagpur that were part of the “Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.”Moreover, he looked over the Route Relay Interlocking (RRI) System at Kharagpur and the station’s renovation projects.

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MRVC Invites Tenders for 238 Vande Metro Rakes

Staff Reporter

22/06/2023

MUMBAI (Metro Rail News): The Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation (MRVC) has announced the invitation for tenders for 238 Vande Metro air-conditioned rakes. These trains will be deployed across the suburban networks on the Western Railway (WR) and Central Railway (CR). With a total of 2,856 cars to be procured, this ambitious project will enable the configuration of both 12-car and 15-car trains.

The decision to procure these revolutionary Vande Metro local train rakes was made on May 19, following the approval of Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. Under the “Make in India” guidelines, the trains will be manufactured by the technology partner in their own factories, ensuring a boost to domestic manufacturing capabilities.

Additionally, two depots at Bhivpuri and Vangaon, already approved under MUT (Modified Utilization Triage) and 3A (Agreement for Automatic Assistance and Availability), will be established to facilitate the maintenance of these advanced rakes.

An MRVC official informed, “We plan to finalize the tenders by September, and if all goes according to plan, the first Vande Metro rake can arrive as early as 2026. Following that, a two-year testing phase for the prototype rake will commence. Subsequently, 50 rakes will be delivered each year, with the entire stock expected to be in service by 2030.”While the exact cost of each 12-car rake has not been disclosed by the MRVC, estimates suggest it will be around Rs 90 crore.

These Vande Metro AC trains will primarily replace existing non-AC services, while also creating additional paths to accommodate the increased demand. MRVC will prepare a “migration strategy” before executing plans to introduce more AC services.

The Railways had initially proposed non-AC rakes with automatic door closure facilities. However, concerns were raised by officials regarding the feasibility of this approach on the overcrowded suburban network. The potential for high carbon dioxide levels within closed coaches due to overcrowding was cited as a major obstacle. These concerns were conveyed to the railway board in January 2016, with officials from WR and CR supporting the assertion.

The MRVC, a 50:50 joint venture between the state government and the Ministry of Railways, bears equal responsibility for project costs. Funding for projects executed by the MRVC is released by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) and the City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO).

The procurement of AC rakes had been put on hold since May of the previous year, as the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government failed to release its share of funding. However, on April 3, the uncertainties were resolved following assurances from Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, guaranteeing full cooperation for works under the Mumbai Urban Transport Projects.

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Navi Mumbai Metro Line 1 Receives Final Permission for Commercial Operations with 11 Stations

Staff Reporter

22/06/2023

Navi Mumbai Metro — Representational image only

MUMBAI (Metro Rail News): The City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) received final permission for its commercial operations for the 12-year-long awaited Navi Mumbai Line 1.

The Metro Line 1 is Rs. 3,063.63 crore project that will run from Belapur to Pendhar.

The first phase of NMMP Line No. 1 is from Belapur to Pendhar that covers 11.1 km of distance with 11 stations; Belapur Rly station, Sector-7 Belapur, Science Park, Utsav Chowk, Sector 11 Kharghar, Sector-14 Kharghar, Central Park, Pethapada, Sector-34 Kharghar, Panchanand and Pendhar Terminal along with a car depot for the maintenance at Taloja and Two Traction Sub stations at Panchanand and Kharghar.

On Wednesday, the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) issued the necessary documents to CIDCO to start Commercial Operations on Line 1 of the Navi Mumbai Metro Project (NMMP) between the central park to Belapur Station. In October 2021, CIDCO received a CMRS certificate for the five stations from Pendhar to Central Park on Line No. 1.

During the visit by chief minister Eknath Shinde and deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis to Ulwe, the Navi Mumbai Airport site declared that metro service will be operational soon as the CMRS certification is received.

Following the approval, the CIDCO informed that the service is ready to be operational, and they are waiting for confirmation from the VVIPs for the formal inauguration only.

The Vice Chairman and Managing Director of CIDCO, Anil Diggikar, inspected the metro stations and mentioned that this is a significant Milestone for the Navi Mumbai Metro Project. He added that receiving the CMRS certificate will allow them to commercially begin the metro service in the Belapur to Pendhar station.

About Navi Mumbai Metro Project (NMMP):

The NMMP was initiated in May 2011 by chief minister Prithviraj Chavan with Bhoomipujan in Kharghar. The State government had informed that the metro would be commercial in the city in three years.

The construction and technical aspect of the metro station line no 1 had been given to San Jose Constructora, Mahavir Roads, Supreme Infra JV. Moreover, the contractor delayed the process, so the contract was cancelled.

In February 2021, CIDCO appointed Maharashtra Metro rail Corporation Limited (Maha Metro) to Complete work on Line No 1 at the cost of rs. 850 crore. Later, in July 2021, the CIDCO appointed Maha Metro to operate and maintain service on Line no 1 for 10 years at the cost of rs. 885 crore plus taxes.

Furthermore, CIDCO appointed the Maha Metro as an engineering assistant for the execution of Metro Line No 1 and received a financial line of credit of rs. 500 crore from ICICI Bank toward it. In addition, CIDCO has made provision in its budget this year for the NMMP by allocating designated land to monetise it.

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RLDA Invites Bids for Prime Railway Land Parcels in Seva Nagar and Lodhi Colony

Staff Reporter

21/06/2023

NEW DELHI (Metro Rail News): The Rail Land Development Authority (RLDA) has recently called for bids on lucrative railway land parcels located in Seva Nagar and Lodhi Colony, two prominent areas in Delhi. These sought-after plots are situated in the eastern part of the centrally administered territory, offering developers a golden opportunity to tap into the city’s thriving real estate market. With a total land area of 43,345.82 square meters, the RLDA has divided it into three parts for different types of development projects.

Residential and Redevelopment Opportunities Await in Seva Nagar and Lodhi Colony

The largest portion of the land, spanning 27,282.42 square meters in Seva Nagar Part B, is designated for the redevelopment of existing railway colonies. This move aims to revitalize the housing infrastructure in the area and provide modern and sustainable living spaces for the residents. Additionally, a total of 16,058.40 square meters in Seva Nagar Part A and Lodhi Colony will be leased for residential development, presenting an opportunity for developers to cater to the growing demand for quality housing in these prestigious localities.

Prime Land for Commercial Development in Seva Nagar and Lodhi Colony

Recognizing the potential for commercial growth, the RLDA has set aside a portion of the land in Seva Nagar Part A and Lodhi Colony for commercial development projects. These locations, known for their proximity to significant areas such as Lodhi Colony, Chanakyapuri Diplomatic Enclave, and Golf Link, offer developers a chance to establish high-end commercial spaces in well-established and secure environments. The reserved price for the site stands at an impressive 355 crore rupees, reflecting the value and desirability of these prime locations.

Developers Show Keen Interest in the Project

During the pre-bid meeting held on May 19, 2023, numerous developers enthusiastically participated and displayed a keen interest in the project. Their enthusiasm reflects the allure of the locations and the promising prospects for profitable ventures in these prime areas of Delhi. The RLDA has set the deadline for submitting electronic bids as June 23, 2023, paving the way for a competitive selection process among the interested developers.

Vice-Chairman’s Perspective: Enhancing the City’s Prestige and Progress

Mr. Ved Parkash Dudeja, the Vice-Chairman of RLDA, expressed his admiration for the locations and emphasized their significance in the city’s landscape. He remarked, “Lodhi Colony, Chanakyapuri Diplomatic Enclave, and Golf Link are among the most sought-after locations in the city. These areas not only have prestige but also represent our city’s cultural and economic vitality. The continuous development of these prime areas is an excellent example of the city’s progress and prosperity.”

Seva Nagar and Lodhi Colony: Desirable Living Experiences in New Delhi

Seva Nagar and Lodhi Colony offer residents a truly exceptional living experience in the heart of New Delhi. Seva Nagar boasts a peaceful environment and a strategic location, providing convenient access to amenities and reliable transportation options. It is ideally situated near South Extension and AIIMS, making it an ideal choice for those seeking seamless connectivity within the city. Residents also enjoy close proximity to renowned educational institutions, hospitals, bustling markets, and recreational facilities, ensuring a comfortable and prosperous lifestyle.

Lodhi Colony, on the other hand, is a cultural and residential hub that seamlessly blends history, art, and contemporary life. Its unique appeal lies in its diverse range of surrounding residential complexes, commercial spaces, and prestigious sites. Being India’s first open-air public art district, Lodhi Colony takes pride in its picturesque wall murals, artistic foundation paintings, and lined-up trees. This distinct character invites residents to embrace an extraordinary lifestyle that combines creativity, heritage, and modernity.

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RVNL Bags Rs 11,256 Crore Contracts from Chennai Metro for Underground Stations

Staff Reporter

21/06/2023

CHENNAI (Metro Rail News): RVNL (Rail Vikas Nigam Ltd ) has announced the acquisition of three contracts worth Rs 11,256 crore from Chennai Metro Rail Ltd (CMRL) to construct underground stations in the phase-ii project.

First Contract: Construction of Five Underground Stations and Other Works

The initial contract is for the construction of five underground stations at Sterling Road Jn, KMC (Kilpauk), Nungambakkam, Gemini (Anna Flyover), Thousand Lights, and Thousand Lights Cross Over Box. The contract includes other associated works and the diaphragm wall of two underground stations at Royapettah Government Hospital (Royapettah) and Chetpet Metro in Corridor 3 of the CMRL phase-II project. The contract is valued at Rs 1,730 crore and spans 1,725 days.

Second Contract: Construction of Four Underground Stations and Additional Works
The second contract focuses on constructing 4 underground stations at Dr Radhakrishnan Salai, Mandaneli, Thirumayilai, and Adyar Junction. The contract also encompasses the construction of two cross-passage shafts, one emergency escape shaft, and other related works, apart from the diaphragm wall of one underground station at Greenways Road Metro in Corridor 3 of the phase-II project of CMRL. Valued at Rs 1,461 crore, this contract is scheduled for completion within 1,725 days.

Third Contract: Construction of Three Underground Stations and a Ramp

The final contract involves the construction of 3 underground stations at Indira Nagar, Adyar Depot, and Taramani Road Junction (Taramani), along with the construction of a ramp and other related works, apart from the diaphragm wall of the underground station at Thiruvanmiyur Metro in Corridor 3 of the phase-II project of CMRL. With a duration of 1,630 days, this contract amounts to Rs 8,065 crore.

Implementing these contracts will greatly contribute to the expansion of Chennai’s metro network, providing residents with improved transportation options and supporting the city’s ongoing development initiatives.

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Chennai Metro Rail Plans to Introduce Additional Trains to Meet Growing Demand

Staff Reporter

21/06/2023

CHENNAI (Metro Rail News): Chennai Metro Rail is gearing up to address the surging service demand by introducing 28 six-coach trains in the 54 km phase I and phase I extension network. The metro authorities have proposed a comprehensive plan that includes additional facilities and infrastructure upgrades, amounting to a total cost of approximately ₹2,800 crores to improve frequency, ease congestion during peak hours, and enhance the passenger experience,

Increasing Passenger Numbers Demand Enhanced Services

A recent study conducted by a consultant for Chennai Metro Rail shed light on the pressing need for additional six-coach trains and strategies to improve frequency. The study revealed a staggering 156% passenger increase between January and December 2022. The daily ridership during weekdays has reached around 2.5 lakh passengers, with most congestion occurring during peak hours. To accommodate the growing demand and alleviate overcrowding, it is imperative to introduce more trains.

Overcoming Existing Limitations and Ensuring Future Scalability

Chennai Metro Rail operates 52 trains for phase I operations, with 45 dedicated to passenger service and the rest as backups. However, increasing the frequency and reducing congestion during peak hours requires additional trains. The study emphasized the criticality of addressing this issue before the commencement of phase II operations to prevent overcrowding, inconvenience to commuters, and a potential decline in patronage. The proposal suggests utilizing six-coach trains during peak hours and deploying four-coach trains during off-peak periods.

Infrastructure Upgrades and Additional Facilities

Several key facilities and infrastructure upgrades need to be implemented to support the integration of the new trains and optimize the metro system. These include expanding the depot with additional stabling lines to accommodate more trains, augmenting platform screen doors for improved safety, extending platform lengths at stations such as Sir Theagaraya College and Tondiarpet, and implementing passenger information systems, announcement systems, and signages. Additionally, the construction of approximately 15 stabling lines, test track lines, heavy washing lines, and an automatic train wash plant may be necessary.

Approval Process and Project Timeline

Officials from Chennai Metro Rail Limited have stated that the project requires approval from a high-level State government committee before being forwarded to the Department of Economic Affairs for funding. Although an international bank has shown informal interest, the official process is yet to begin. It is estimated that obtaining clearances, initiating the tender process, and receiving the trains will take approximately three years.

Comprehensive Study Informs Decision-Making

The study conducted by Chennai Metro Rail extensively analyzed traffic volumes, public and private transport patterns, and modes of transportation with high passenger volumes. Experts conducted field-level surveys at ten locations to gather data and insights crucial for making informed decisions regarding the expansion and enhancement of the metro system.

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Chennai Metro Phase II: St. Thomas Mount-Adambakkam Stretch to Complete by 2027

Staff Reporter

20/06/2023

CHENNAI (Metro Rail News): The completion of the 4-kilometre elevated stretch between St. Thomas Mount and Adambakkam in the Chennai Metro Rail Ltd. (CMRL) phase II project is anticipated in 2027. This stretch is part of corridor 5, one of the three corridors in the project, which aims to enhance transportation across the city.

CMRL officials emphasize the importance of promptly finishing this stretch since it will serve a large number of people in the area. However, constructing this short stretch poses challenges due to narrow and congested roads, as well as the presence of structures in close proximity to the alignment.

The construction efforts will be coordinated with the Southern Railway, as the proposed extension line of the Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) and the Metro Rail line share a common alignment for this segment. Although it is expected to be time-consuming, the authorities aim to complete the construction within the next four years.

Among the elevated stretches in the phase II project, the section from Poonamallee to Porur will be the first to be opened to the public after three years. Conversely, the St. Thomas Mount to Adambakkam stretch will be the last to be completed, with the target year being 2027.

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CM KCR Announces Extension of Hyderabad Metro to Kandukur

Staff Reporter

20/06/2023

HYDERABAD (Metro Rail News): On Monday, CM K Chandrashekar Rao revealed that the Hyderabad Metro Rail network would be extended to more areas in the capital region. Speaking at the launch of Haritha Haram Phase-9 in Tumuluru village, Rangareddy, he announced that the expansion would include the long-awaited extension of the Metro Rail up to the Shamshabad airport, with plans for further extension to Kandukur in the Maheshwaram constituency.

After Education Minister P Sabitha Indra Reddy’s request to extend the Metro Rail to Kandukur, Chief Minister Rao acknowledged the genuine demand and emphasized the need for immediate consideration. He expressed his dissatisfaction with the exclusion of the Shamshabad airport in the initial phases of the Metro Rail line, labeling it a major blunder that needed rectification. The tenders were also called for connecting the missing link to the airport, with an estimated cost of Rs. 6000 crore. Furthermore, he took personal responsibility for extending the Metro Rail network to Maheshwaram constituency in the near future.

Chief Minister Rao emphasized the importance of Metro Rail connectivity along the LB Nagar-BHEL stretch and highlighted the need to complete the implementation towards BHEL. Although the network has been extended to the LB Nagar end, further efforts are underway to ensure complete coverage.

The extension of the Hyderabad Metro Rail network, inclusion of the Shamshabad airport, and proposed connectivity to Kandukur reflect the government’s commitment to improving public transportation and infrastructure in the region. These developments are expected to bring immense convenience and accessibility to the residents while boosting economic growth and connectivity in the capital region.

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DMRC Expands Co-Branding: 165 More Stations for Revenue Generation

Staff Reporter

20/06/2023

Representational image only

NEW DELHI (Metro Rail News): The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has announced its plan to extend co-branding rights to 165 stations across nine lines of the Delhi Metro in a bid to generate additional revenue. This strategic move follows a successful stakeholder interaction session aimed at exploring innovative ways to raise funds for the transportation giant.

Under this initiative, the chosen licensee’s brand will be integrated with the metro station’s name, either as a prefix or suffix, while station walls may also be adorned with the brand’s distinct colors. Renowned stations such as New Delhi, Nehru Place, Kashmere Gate, Ashram, Khan Market, Vasant Vihar, Hauz Khas, Janpath, Greater Kailash, Dilli Haat, and RK Puram are among the prominent locations available for co-branding. Notably, DMRC has already granted branding rights to more than 40 stations on its network in recent years.

The licensee will be granted up to 4,000 square feet of branding space within the station premises, including the external facade. This space may accommodate canopies, retail kiosks, and other branding elements, contingent upon the station’s category. DMRC is also considering the possibility of featuring the co-branded station names in announcements made inside trains, taking into account the feedback from stakeholders.

Mr. Vikas Kumar, Managing Director of DMRC, expressed enthusiasm about the unique opportunity, stating, “This initiative provides a platform for brands to align themselves with Delhi’s lifeline and engage with passengers, who collectively make nearly half a million journeys each day.”

According to Auctus-StudioPOD, consultants to DMRC, the licensing of co-branding rights aligns with global best practices observed in stadiums, bus terminals, trams, cable cars, and metro networks in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, Europe, and America. This approach enables the monetization of commercial potential while keeping passenger fares affordable.

With a daily ridership of approximately 4.6 million passenger journeys across its 10 operational lines, including the Airport Express Line, the DMRC network stands as a vital lifeline for the capital. As part of its Phase IV expansion, an additional 46 stations are under construction, which will further extend the reach of the network across the breadth of the national capital, presenting even greater branding opportunities.

The DMRC’s co-branding initiative not only offers a unique chance for businesses to connect with a massive audience but also provides DMRC with a sustainable avenue for generating additional revenue to enhance its services and infrastructure.

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Railways Allocates Rs 370 Crore for Deep Screening Project, Reinforcing Track Safety Measures

Staff Reporter

20/06/2023

Odisha Train Accident — Image for representational purpose only

NEW DELHI (Metro Rail News): In response to the tragic triple train accident in Odisha, the Railways has taken a significant step to ensure track safety. The railway authorities have allocated Rs 370 crore for deep screening of all the tracks in the South Eastern Railway. The project aims to thoroughly examine all types of mainline tracks on the broad-gauge routes of the South Eastern Railway zone.

To carry out this inspection, over 150 ballast cleaning machines (BCM) will be deployed. These machines play a crucial role in improving track resilience and restoring proper drainage. Following the deep screening process, dynamic track stabilizers and ballast regulating machines will be utilized to restore track stability and redistribute track ballast. Additional tasks, such as lubricating fish-plated rail joints and reattaching joggled fish plates, will also be completed.

According to a railway official, this project is a routine maintenance and safety measure undertaken by the Indian Railways to ensure the tracks are safe and well-maintained. However, the timing of this initiative in the South Eastern Railway zone holds significance due to the recent Balasore accident, which has raised concerns about rail safety.

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