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STEC achieves 1st cross-passage breakthrough for Delhi-Meerut RAPIDX project

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NCRTC) awarded the controversial contract for Package 4 of the Delhi-RapidX project to Shanghai Tunnel Engineering Co. Ltd. 
NCRTC) awarded the controversial contract for Package 4 of the Delhi-RapidX project to Shanghai Tunnel Engineering Co. Ltd. 

NEW DELHI (Metro Rail News): Shanghai Tunnel Engineering Co. Ltd. (STEC) achieved a significant milestone last week by recording the first cross-passage breakthrough for Package 4 of the Delhi-Meerut RAPIDX (RRTS) project.

Cross-passages are crucial in ensuring passenger safety and enabling efficient maintenance procedures. These reinforced concrete structures are strategically placed at regular intervals, ranging from 250 to 400 meters, depending on tunnel length and soil characteristics between adjacent stations.

Headline: STEC achieves 1st cross-passage breakthrough for Delhi-Meerut RAPIDX project
STEC achieves 1st cross-passage breakthrough for Delhi-Meerut RAPIDX project

They serve as emergency escape routes connecting parallel tunnels, allowing passengers to evacuate in case of unforeseen circumstances. Traditionally, cross-passage construction begins after tunnel construction, aiming to enhance working conditions and maximize efficiency.

In December 2020, the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) awarded the controversial contract for Package 4 of the Delhi-RapidX project to Shanghai Tunnel Engineering Co. Ltd.

Headline: STEC achieves 1st cross-passage breakthrough for Delhi-Meerut RAPIDX project

This 5.6 km package involves building twin tunnels between New Ashok Nagar DN Ramp – Anand Vihar – Sahibabad UP Ramp and constructing a new station at Anand Vihar.

According to estimates, STEC plans to construct approximately 4-5 cross-passages between Anand Vihar and Sahibabad UP Ramp at Vaishali, with an additional 7-9 cross-passages between Anand Vihar and Ashok Nagar DN Ramp at Khichripur.

NCRTC) awarded the controversial contract for Package 4 of the Delhi-RapidX project to Shanghai Tunnel Engineering Co. Ltd. 
NCRTC) awarded the controversial contract for Package 4 of the Delhi-RapidX project to Shanghai Tunnel Engineering Co. Ltd.
Route Map New Ashok Nagar DN Ramp - Anand Vihar- Sahibabad UP Ramp
Route Map New Ashok Nagar DN Ramp – Anand Vihar- Sahibabad UP Ramp

The company utilizes hydraulic drill machines and occasionally low-grade explosives to facilitate excavation.

With this recent achievement, STEC has accomplished 6 out of 8 planned tunnel breakthroughs on the main line. The most recent breakthrough occurred at Sahibabad UP Ramp in May 2023, achieved by Sudarshan 4.3.

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Chief Secretary Durga Shankar Mishra Inspects Progress of Agra Metro Rail Project

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Agra Metro

LUCKNOW (Metro Rail News):  On 17 June 2023, the Chief Secretary, Durga Shankar Mishra, inspected the ongoing metro construction and expressed satisfaction with the accurate execution of the project by the Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC).

Chief Secretary Mishra visited the Taj East Gate station along with MD UPMRC Sushil Kumar, Director Rolling Stock Atul Garg, and Project Director Agra Arvind Rai to consider the finishing works, design, along with track work on the concourse and platform area.

Agra, a city flourishing with national and international tourists, is on the verge of getting a world-class metro rail system, and the UPMRC team is actively working towards its realization,” stated Mishra. 

He further emphasized that the Agra Metro Rail Project aligns with the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat‘ mission of the Government of India, and the trains for the project have been manufactured as part of the Make in India initiative in Savli, Gujarat.

MD UPMRC Sushil Kumar provided an update on the project’s progress, stating, “Chief Secretary Mishra’s visit to the Agra Metro Rail Project was encouraging. “Three elevated stations on the first corridor have been completed, with finishing work nearly finalized, including electrical work.”

He added that the civil work for underground stations has also been completed. Despite the usual four-year timeline for constructing underground metro stations, the construction of three underground stations in Agra, which began in March 2022, is projected to be finished by February 2024.

The Agra Metro Rail Project holds immense promise for enhancing transportation infrastructure and facilitating seamless connectivity in one of India’s most visited cities.

AGRA METRO PROGRESS:

UPMRC has completed the civil works on the 3 km long elevated section of the Priority Corridor (Taj East gate to Jama Masjid), and the finishing work is in the advanced stages. The ramp area is also ready, and the cut and cover area (the third site where the TBM will be launched) is also in full swing. Civil work is underway in the underground section at all 7 underground stations from the Taj Mahal to RBS College.

TBM ‘Ganga’ and ‘Yamuna‘ are currently working on a 3 km underground section of priority corridors for up and down lines, and tunnelling work is progressing rapidly towards completion. Mr Sushil Kumar informed us that testing of the metro train is being done by UP Metro on depot premises. A high-speed test of the train will be conducted soon on the mainline (viaduct).

TBM ‘Yamuna’ was launched on 6 February 2023 by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath. After this, TBM Ganga set the record by making the first breakthrough in just 48 days and TBM Yamuna in a record time of 72 days. Both TBMs are constructing a tunnel toward the Taj Mahal from Agra Fort. After this, both the TBMs will be removed from near the Taj Mahal Metro Station.

The 29.4 km long two-corridor metro network in Tajnagari will have 27 stations. Construction of the 14 km long first corridor between Taj East Gate and Sikandar is in full swing. The 13 stations will be constructed in this corridor. It will have 6 elevated and 7 underground stations. A depot is being constructed in the PAC premises for this corridor. Also, the distance between Agra Cantt and Kalindi Vihar is about 16 km. A longer second corridor will be constructed, with 14 elevated stations.

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Redevelopment of New Jalpaiguri Railway Station Begins

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New Jalpaiguri Railway Station
New Jalpaiguri Railway Station / Representational Image

JALPAIGURI (Metro Rail News): The New Jalpaiguri railway station is set to undergo a major transformation, emphasizing enhancing passenger amenities and providing a world-class experience. The redevelopment project, estimated to cost Rs 334.72 crore, has already commenced, aiming to complete all upgrades by 2025.

Significant infrastructural works have already been completed at the New Jalpaiguri (NJP) railway station, including the foundation of the Secondary Station and Arrival-1 building, the relocation of the UTS cum Passenger Reservation System (PRS) and MCO office, the casting of test piles for the elevated road, and the establishment of a site office and conference room. 

The expected transformation of NJP station aims to create an ambience similar to an airport, providing passengers with a seamless and comfortable experience.

To prioritize accessibility and inclusivity, the station will be made Divyang-friendly, equipped with 12 escalators and 10 lifts. Furthermore, CCTV cameras will be strategically installed throughout the premises to maintain security measures, enhancing surveillance and ensuring passenger safety.

It will become the country’s first international terminal station, facilitating seamless cross-border connectivity. Additionally, the station will house a terminal for the renowned World Heritage Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR), adding to its cultural significance. Once completed, the upgraded NJP station is expected to handle traffic efficiently for the next 45 years.

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Delhi Metro’s New Aerocity – Tughlakabad Silver line to have Longest Station in Phase 4

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Aerocity Metro station on Aerocity–Tughlakabad Silver Line corridor of Phase 4.
Aerocity Metro station on Aerocity–Tughlakabad Silver Line corridor of Phase 4.

DELHI (Metro Rail News): Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has announced that the new Aerocity – Tughlakabad Silver Line corridor platform, part of phase 4 of the metro expansion project, will accommodate the longest of all phase 4 stations.

According to DMRC, the basic length of the underground metro stations of phase 4 is 225 metres, whereas the new platform Aerocity metro station on Aerocity- Tughlakabad Silver line will be featured as the longest, with a length of 289 metres and at a depth of 23 metres.

They added that the station’s extensive length is designed with precautions to accommodate the expected passenger traffic since it will be a significant triple interchange facility with connectivity among the Airport Express Line, The RRTS Corridor- Gurugram, Manesar and Alwar and the Silver Line.

Functioning as a terminal station, it will provide direct connectivity from Faridabad in the NCR City, South Delhi, and West Delhi, particularly facilitating travel to the Indira Gandhi International Airport.

The DMRC highlighted that the station would have three entry and exit points, one connecting to the business hub of Aerocity and the other two links to NH-8 and the nearby locality of Mahipalpur via a pedestrian subway. This infrastructure enhancement will significantly improve accessibility to the airport.

According to the DMRC, the Tughlakabad – Aerocity Corridor represents a significant addition to Delhi’s Metro network, addressing the increasing transportation demands on Mehrauli-Badarpur Road, Chhattarpur Extension, and Mahipal Pur area.

Furthermore, it will greatly benefit South Delhi, Faridabad, and Noida residents by enabling faster travel and seamless access to the airport.

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Indian Railways Embraces PPP and EPC Modes for Station Redevelopment

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New Delhi Railway Station Redevelopment Project model
Image for representation only

NEW DELHI (Metro Rail News): Indian Railway will allow a mix of Public-Private partnership (PPP) and Engineering Procurement and construction (EPC) modes to redevelop Stations.

According to the official statement, Coimbatore and Vijayawada stations may be the first to undergo PPP redevelopment, while Delhi and CST would undergo EPC redevelopment.

Furthermore, approval for the redevelopment of these stations will be sought in the next two months. The stations which are on the list for redevelopment through PPP mode include Anand Vihar, Tambram, Andheri, Dadar, Pune, Kalyan, Chennai Central, Vadodra, The Bangalore City, Bhopal, Hazrat Nizamuddin and Avadi stations.

As per the official information, the railway board called off the bid to redevelop the New Delhi Railway Station in EPC mode; earlier, the PPP mode also failed.

In September last year, the cabinet approved Rs. 10,000 crores to redevelop New Delhi, Mumbai (CST) & Ahmedabad railway stations. In which the lowest bid submitted was Rs.8,000 crore for the redevelopment of New Delhi Railway station, which was higher than the estimated value of Rs. 5,000 crores by the government.

Following the National Monetisation Pipeline (NMP), station redevelopment comes under the front-runner asset classes contributing approximately Rs. 76,250 crores for nearly 5% of the total stations in the country.

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Shri Rajeev Appointed as New Director (Systems and O&M) at MMRCL

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Mr. Rajeev, new appointed Director (System and O&M ) at MMRCL
Mr. Rajeev, new appointed Director (System and O&M ) at MMRCL

MUMBAI (Metro Rail News): Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MMRCL) has recently announced the appointment of Shri Rajeev as the new Director (Systems and O&M).

With an illustrious career spanning over 20 years with the Indian Railways and extensive expertise in the Metro Rail System, Rajeev is ready to make significant contributions to the development and operation of Mumbai’s metro network.

In the year 1995, Mr. Rajeev began his career with Indian Railways and held various pivotal positions for over 20 years until February 2016. His extensive experience in Rolling Stock, Overhead Traction, Power Supply, E&M, and other vital areas has earned him a commendable reputation in the industry.

Moreover, Rajeev also served as Central Railway’s Deputy Chief Vigilance Officer (Electrical) for five years. Later, joining MMRC in March 2016 as General Manager (Rolling Stock), Rajeev swiftly ascended to Executive Director (Rolling Stock). During his tenure, he successfully oversaw the operations of the Rolling Stock, Depot Plant & Equipment, and other key departments at MMRC, showcasing his exceptional leadership and management skills.

With his latest appointment as the Director (Systems and O&M), Rajeev will spearhead the strategic planning and execution of Mumbai Metro’s systems and operations.

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Opportunity for Business and Office Spaces at CMRL Premises

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CMRL in a meeting with Empanelled business development consultant
CMRL in a meeting with Empanelled business development consultant

CHENNAI (Metro Rail News): Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has opened opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs to set up shop or establish office spaces within CMRL-owned premises.

In a recent meeting organized by CMRL, the Director (Finance), Dr Prasanna Kumar Acharya, along with Thiru. R.M. Krishnan, CGM (P & BD), and the Empanelled Business Development Consultant discussed collaborating to provide transaction advisory and bid process management services for retail spaces and land parcels across Chennai Metro Rail Stations.

Following the meeting, the primary objective of this partnership is to boost CMRL’s non-fare box revenue by identifying potential commercial retail operators and office seekers interested in the available commercial spaces within CMRL’s portfolio.

The other Business Development Consultants, leveraging their market expertise and deep real estate industry knowledge, will act as a bridge for Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) and help CMRL attract investors and occupiers for its land parcels.

The commercial spaces, ranging from 3000 Sqm to 10,000 Sqm, are strategically located near prominent Metro Stations, including Nehru Park, Saidapet, Arumbakkam, Pachaiyappa’s College, Central Square, Mannadi, Wimco Nagar, and Koyambedu.

These locations offer a prime opportunity for businesses across various sectors, such as retail, hospitality, healthcare, warehousing, and industrial, to establish a strong presence within Chennai’s thriving metro network.

Interested individuals and organizations can obtain further information by contacting CMRL’s business development wing or the CMRL Empanelled Business Development Consultant. The consultant’s contact details can be found on CMRL’s official website.

CMRL’s initiative to provide commercial and office spaces within their premises aims to generate additional revenue and fosters a conducive environment for businesses to thrive. This collaboration presents a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs, retailers, and organizations seeking well-connected and strategically located spaces to establish their presence in the bustling city of Chennai.

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L&T Emerges as Lowest Bidder for Mumbai-Ahmedabad HSR C3 Contract in Maharashtra

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NHSRCL has completed 33% of land acquisition in Maharashtra for MAHSR Corridor
Image Source: NHSRCL

MUMBAI (Metro Rail News): Larsen & Toubro (L&T) has been declared as the lowest bidder for the construction of Package C-3 of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (MAHSR) project as per the National High-Speed Rail Corporation Ltd. (NHSRCL) statement for designing and constructing civil and building works, including testing and commissioning, for the double-line high-speed railway. 

This section will have three elevated stations, namely Thane, Virar, and Boisar, enhancing connectivity and accessibility for commuters. The Thane Depot will be built separately under the civil construction contract, Package D1, for which bids were accepted earlier this year.

The NHSRCL began the bidding process for the building of Package C3 in November 2022, with the expected project cost remaining unknown.

The completion date for this segment has been set as 1704 days (about 4.66 years). The technical bids were opened in April, revealing that four firms, including a consortium of three, had submitted their offers.

The bidders, NCC – J Kumar JV, offered a significant discount of 10.50% on schedules 1-8 of the financial bid sheet. On the other hand, Afcons – KPTL JV presented a multi-currency bid and extended a substantial discount of 16.45% on their entire bid value. 

However, Larsen & Toubro emerged with its bid of Rs. 15,697.00 crores, ensuring the lowest net price after applying the necessary discounts.

The project spans from Shilphata in Maharashtra to Zaroli at the Maharashtra-Gujarat border, covering a distance of approximately 135.45 km (from MAHSR Km 21.150 to MAHSR Km 156.600), excluding the Thane Depot.

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Vande Bharat Trains to be Operational on Five New Routes

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Vande Bharat Express/Representational Image
Representational Image

NEW DELHI (Metro Rail News): The Indian Railways is all set to introduce Vande Bharat trains on five new routes on June 26. Honourable Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, will launch these semi-high-speed trains through a video conference. A total of 23 Vande Bharat trains will be operational, covering more than 22 states and Union Territories across India by the end of June.

The five new train routes are:

Bengaluru-Hubbali-Dharwad Vande Bharat: Karnataka will soon have another Vande Bharat Express train connecting Bengaluru, Hubballi, and Dharwad. This will be the second Vande Bharat train in the state, in addition to the one connecting Chennai, Mysuru, and Bengaluru. The train will run in the South Western Railway zone and is expected to stop at Yeswantpur, Hubballi and Davangere stations. It will significantly reduce the travel time between Hubballi and Dharwad from 7 hours to around 5 hours.

Mumbai-Goa Vande Bharat Express: Previously, the launch of the Mumbai-Goa Vande Bharat Express was cancelled due to the Balasore train tragedy. However, it will now be launched to enhance connectivity between the cities. The train will make stops at Dadar, Panvel, Thane, Roha, Ratnagiri, Khed, Thivim, Kankavli, and Madgaon during its journey. The train will reduce travel time and complete a journey of 586 kilometres in 7 hours and 50 minutes.

Patna-Ranchi Vande Bharat Express: Bihar will have its first Vande Bharat train connecting Patna and Ranchi. The train will travel a distance of about 410 kilometres while stopping in Gaya, Koderma, Parasnath, Hazaribagh Road, and Bokaro Steel City. Commuters can look forward to reduced travel time between these cities.

Bhopal-Indore Vande Bharat Express: This will be the 2nd train running in the state of Madhya Pradesh, originating from Bhopal. This train will connect multiple cities in the state, although specific details regarding the stops are not yet available.

Bhopal-Jabalpur Vande Bharat Express: The Bhopal-Jabalpur Vande Bharat Express will be the third train of its kind in India and the third one departing from Bhopal’s Rani Kamlapati railway station.

This is the first time that five Vande Bharat trains will begin operations simultaneously. However, due to the recent accident in Odisha, the inauguration event will be relatively low-key compared to previous launches.

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NHSRCL Completes Second River Bridge on MAHSR Corridor

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The Purna river bridge

AHMEDABAD (Metro Rail News ): The construction of the second river bridge on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (MAHSR) corridor has been successfully completed, marking a significant milestone in the project. The bridge, spanning 360 meters over the Purna River between Bilimora and Surat stations in Gujarat, posed several challenges for the National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited.

A total of 24 river bridges are proposed for construction along the high-speed rail corridor, with 20 planned for Gujarat and four for Maharashtra. The completion of the Purna River bridge represents the second accomplishment in this regard. The foundation construction was particularly difficult, according to NHSRCL officials, because of the river’s strong tides, which caused water levels to climb by five to six metres every two weeks. Throughout construction, the Arabian Sea tides were continuously monitored.

The bridge comprises nine full span girders, each measuring 40 meters, supported by piers ranging from 10 to 20 meters in height. The circular piers have a diameter of four to five meters. The first river bridge in the Valsad area, which crosses the Par River between the Vapi and Bilimore stations, was finished in January 2023.

Officials disclosed that construction activities are progressing on a 1.2-kilometre-long bridge over the Narmada River in Bharuch, which will be the longest bridge in Gujarat. Work is also underway on bridges over the Sabarmati, Mahi, Narmada, Tape, and other rivers in various districts of Gujarat.

Officials estimate that the bullet train service will commence operations by 2026, providing a high-speed rail connection between Mumbai and Ahmedabad.

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