New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has flagged-off the Delhi-Faridabad Metro Line that would allow hassle free travel for around two lakh daily commuters between the national capital and the industrial hub in Haryana.
The extension of the Delhi Metro connects Badarpur to Escorts Mujesar in Faridabad.
The total cost of the project from Badarpur to Escorts Mujesar is nearly Rs. 2,500 crore. Out of this, Rs. 1,557 crore was borne by the Haryana Government, the Centre contributed Rs. 537 crore, while the Delhi Metro provided Rs. 400 crore.
All these are elevated and located on either side of the Delhi-Mathura Road (NH-2).
“The nine-station metro corridor which was 95 per cent indigenously built will provide people a safe, affordable, quick, comfortable, reliable, environment-friendly and sustainable transport facility,” a Haryana government spokesperson said.
Haryana Chief Minister ML Khattar, addressing a press conference on Saturday, had thanked the Prime Minister for “gifting” the Metro service which would take the city to “another level of progress” with better connectivity with other NCR towns.
He had also said that the Prime Minister would be announcing the go-ahead for connecting Gurgaon with Faridabad by Metro.
JAMMU & KASHMIR (Metro Rail News): Konkan Railways has invited e-tenders for comprehensive maintenance works of railway electrification infrastructure in the Katra (Excl.) to Banihal (Excl.) section of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project in Jammu & Kashmir.
The comprehensive maintenance contract ensures sustained operational reliability and safety of electrification infrastructure across one of India’s most challenging railway sections, traversing difficult Himalayan terrain in Jammu & Kashmir.
Tender Overview
Tender Number
KR-PD-JK-EL-CMC-RE-KB-3
Project Section
Katra (Excl.) to Banihal (Excl.), USBRL Project, J&K
Contract Period
60 months (5 years)
Contract Value
₹73,21,82,745.45 (approximately ₹73.22 crore)
Earnest Money Deposit
₹38,10,900 (online payment only via IREPS)
Pre-Bid Conference
March 16, 2026 at 11:00 hrs (video conference)
Bidding Start Date
March 21, 2026
Tender Closing Date
April 4, 2026 at 12:00 hrs
Bid Validity
60 days from closing date
Scope of Work: Comprehensive Maintenance (Breakdown/ Preventive) Works Of Railway Electrification Works Including Rocs & Focs System For 05 Years In The Katra (Excl.) To Banihal (Excl.) Section Of Udhampur-Srinagar- Baramulla Rail Link Project, Jammu & Kashmir
USBRL Project Significance
The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link represents one of India’s most ambitious and challenging railway projects, connecting the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the Indian railway network. The Katra-Banihal section traverses extremely difficult Himalayan terrain including the world’s highest railway bridge at Chenab, numerous tunnels through unstable geology, and sections vulnerable to extreme weather, landslides, and seismic activity.
Railway electrification infrastructure in this section operates under uniquely challenging conditions.
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.
Vijayawada, also known as Bezawada, is the second-largest city and a prominent commercial centre in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. It forms a vital part of the Andhra Pradesh Capital Region and is strategically located on the banks of the Krishna River. The city is widely known for the famous Kanaka Durga Temple, an important Hindu shrine that attracts millions of devotees each year. Vijayawada is often regarded as the commercial, political, cultural, and educational capital of the state. In recent years, Vijayawada has emerged as one of India’s fastest-growing urban areas. Reflecting its rapid development, an Oxford Economics report has ranked the city among the top ten fastest-growing cities in the world.
Factors Leading to the Development of the Vijayawada Metro
Vijayawada’s Total Population By Year
1. Rapid Population Growth: The graph shows a steady and sharp rise in Vijayawada’s population from 1950 to 2025. This growth was mainly due to rapid urbanisation and migration to the city for jobs and education. This growth substantially raised commuting demand, placing heavy pressure on the existing road network. Therefore, a reliable and high-capacity mass transit system like the Vijayawada Metro was necessary to meet future transport needs and support planned urban growth.
2. Rising Traffic Congestion: Vijayawada’s steadily growing population drove a surge in private vehicle ownership, which overwhelmed the city’s existing road network. This influx led to frequent traffic jams, extended commuting times, and severe congestion during peak hours. Policymakers also recognised that buses and auto-rickshaws alone could not meet long-term mobility demands. A metro rail system emerged as the preferred solution to address these challenges and alleviate road traffic in Vijayawada.
Tracing the Evolution of the Vijayawada Metro
2014- 2015: The concept of a Vijayawada Metro gained momentum soon after the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh, when Amaravati was planned as the new capital. During this period, the Detailed Project Report (DPR) was prepared for the Vijayawada Metro Project.
September 2015: The Andhra Pradesh government signed an agreement with the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) to implement Phase-1- a 26.03 km heavy-rail Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS). DMRC subsequently invited civil construction bids for both proposed lines.
2015–2016: The DMRC cancelled the procurement process due to high project costs and projected low ridership.
2017: The Vijayawada Metro project faced delays due to administrative changes and uncertainties in funding, which slowed the overall progress of the project.
2017–2018: The state government decided to switch from a heavy-rail system to a Light Rail Transit (LRT), aiming for a more cost-effective, flexible, and scalable solution for Vijayawada.
2019: To reduce overall project costs and adjust the network for more realistic ridership projections, the project was revised and SYSTRA – RITES – GOPA JV submitted the Revised DPR for the project.
2024: The state government approved the Detailed Project Report (DPR) of Vijayawada Metro Project.
Vijayawada Metro: Addressing Urban Growth and Connectivity
Overview
Vijayawada Light Metro is a Light Rail Transit (LRT) system which will be built in the city of Vijayawada and Amaravati, the new capital of Andhra Pradesh. Currently, the project is in the implementation stage. The project is being managed and implemented by the Andhra Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (APMRC), formerly known as Amaravati Metro Rail Corporation (AMRC).
The Vijayawada Metro Rail Phase 1 project covers a total length of 38.4km via 2 corridors. The route details have been mentioned below:
Corridor
Section
Length
Stations
Corridor-1
PNBS – Gannavaram
25.95 km
22
Corridor-2
PNBS – Penamaluru
12.45 km
12
Vijayawada Metro Route Details
Phase 1A Route
Line-2: Pandit Nehru Bus Station (PNBS) – Vijayawada Airport at Gannavaram
Length: 25.90 km
Type: Elevated (23 km) & underground (2.90 km)
Number of Stations: 22
Phase 1B Route
Line-1: Pandit Nehru Bus Station (PNBS) – Penamaluru
Length: 12.76 km
Type: Elevated
Number of Stations: 12
Station Names: Pandit Nehru Bus Station, Museum, IG Stadium, DV Manor, Benz Circle, Autonagar Gate, Ravindra Bharati School, Gayatri JR College, Law College, Tadigadapa, Poranki and Penamaluru
Vijayawada Metro Phase 2 Route
Line-2: Pandit Nehru Bus Station (PNBS) – Amravati Reservoir
Length: 27.80 km
Type: Elevated (4.7 km) & Underground (23.1 km)
Number of Stations: 18
Recent Update on Vijayawada Metro Project In July 2025, Andhra Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (APMRCL) floated a tender for the first civil contract worth Rs. 4150 Crores of the Vijayawada Metro Rail Project.The contract includes the design and construction of a 38.40 km viaduct, 1 Underground metro station and 32 Elevated Metro stations for Phase 1 of the Project.
Impacts of Vijayawada Metro Projects
1. Improved Urban Mobility: The Vijayawada Metro Project will substantially enhance urban mobility by providing efficient and seamless connectivity across the city. The project will link major residential areas with important commercial centers and transport hubs.The metro system will support balanced urban development and improve accessibility for students, workers, and businesses in Vijayawada.
2. Minimising Traffic Congestion and Private Vehicle Usage: The Vijayawada Metro Project will reduce the traffic congestion by offering a fast, reliable, and efficient public transport alternative. With improved connectivity, the commuters will be encouraged to shift from private vehicles to metro services. This shift will decrease the number of cars and two-wheelers on busy roads, especially during peak hours. The reduced road traffic will lead to smoother vehicle movement, fewer traffic jams, and lower travel stress for commuters.
3. Environmental Sustainability: The establishment of the Vijayawada Metro system will contribute to a cleaner, more organised, and sustainable urban transport network. By reducing dependence on private vehicles, the metro will help lower fuel consumption and decrease harmful vehicular emissions, leading to improved air quality.
4. Impact on Real Estate and Economic Growth: The Vijayawada Metro Project is expected to stimulate real estate development and boost economic growth across the city. Improved connectivity around metro corridors will increase property demand, encourage commercial investments, and promote the development of residential and business hubs. Additionally, the project will also generate employment during construction and operation phases, boosting local income levels. Furthermore, enhanced mobility will also support the business expansion and commercial activity, contributing to the overall economic development of the city.
Conclusion
The Vijayawada Metro Project represents a transformative step in the city’s journey toward becoming a modern, sustainable, and well-connected urban center. As Vijayawada continues to experience rapid population growth, rising travel demand, and increasing pressure on its road infrastructure, the metro system will emerge as a strategic solution to address long-term mobility challenges. By integrating key residential zones, commercial districts, educational institutions, and transport hubs, the Vijayawada Metro will substantially improve accessibility and reduce dependence on private vehicles. Once operational, the Vijayawada Metro Project will reshape the city’s mobility landscape.
Witness the innovations & AI- powered solutions in railway & metro systems from over 200 exhibitors at the 6th edition of InnoMetro. Join India’s dedicated show for the rail transit sector which is going to held on 21-22 May 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi
NEW DELHI (Metro Rail News): Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has announced the lowest bidders for a contract that entails providing ticket vending services at various metro stations of Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) Phase-II. The contract, bearing Award No. DMRC/CMRL/Phase-II/TVS/2025/01 and dated 9 March 2026, was procured by DMRC on behalf of CMRL.
Two bidders JMD Consultants and Nuvision Commercial and Escort Services (NCES) submitted identical quotes of ₹31,76,73,820, both emerging as L1.
Contract Details at a Glance
Award No.
DMRC/CMRL/Phase-II/TVS/2025/01
Tender / e-Tender ID
2025_DMRC_889290_1
Technical Bid Opening
24 February 2026
Technical Evaluation Date
9 March 2026
Financial Bid Opening
9 March 2026
Contract Date
9 March 2026
Contract Amount
₹31,76,73,820
No. of Bidders
4 (2 technically qualified)
Tender Authority
Delhi Metro Rail Corporation Limited (DMRC)
Bidding Process
Technical bids were opened on 24 February 2026. Of the four bidders who submitted proposals, two BVG India Limited and Godawari Farms and Services, were rejected at the technical evaluation stage for being technically non-compliant. Technical evaluation was completed on 9 March 2026, and financial bids of the two qualified bidders were opened the same day.
S.No.
Bidder
Bid Amount
Status
1
Nuvision Commercial and Escort Services (NCES)
₹31,76,73,820
L1
2
JMD Consultants
₹31,76,73,820
L1
3
BVG India Limited
—
Rejected — Technically Non-Compliant
4
Godawari Farms and Services
—
Rejected — Technically Non-Compliant
Scope of Work: Providing Ticket Vending Services toDelhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) for Phase-II of Chennai Metro Rail Limited(CMRL)
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.
Indian Railways, one of the largest rail networks globally with over 68,000 kilometers of route, has served as the foundation of India’s transportation system for decades. It supports economic development by enabling efficient movement of goods and passengers while promoting social and cultural integration across diverse regions of the country. As passenger demand evolved toward faster, safer, and more comfortable travel, Indian Railways recognized the need to modernize its rolling stock and adopt advanced, indigenous technologies to sustain its role as the backbone of national transportation.
In response, Indian Railways introduced the Vande Bharat Express, India’s first indigenously designed and manufactured semi-high-speed train, developed entirely under the Make in India initiative. The launch of Vande Bharat marked a major milestone in India’s journey toward self-reliance in advanced railway technology, setting new benchmarks in speed, safety, energy efficiency, and passenger-focused design while showcasing the nation’s growing engineering and manufacturing capabilities.
India’s Journey Toward High-Speed Rail Development
In 1960, the Railway Board of India initiated detailed studies to improve train speeds, which at the time were restricted to about 96 km/h on broad gauge routes. A phased speed enhancement program was introduced, with an initial target of 120 km/h and a long-term objective of reaching 160 km/h.
In 1969, the Rajdhani Express was introduced with diesel locomotives, marking India’s first premium high-speed train service and operating at speeds of up to 120 km/h.
Further progress was made in 1988 with the launch of the Shatabdi Express, hauled by WAP-1 electric locomotives, which increased operational speeds to around 130 km/h.
The evolution culminated on 15 February 2019 with the launch of the Vande Bharat Express, India’s first indigenous semi-high-speed train, operating on the New Delhi-Kanpur-Allahabad-Varanasi route.
Vande Bharat Express : A New Era in Indian Railways
The Vande Bharat Express, earlier known as Train 18, is India’s first indigenous semi-high-speed train and a major milestone in the history of Indian Railways. The Vande Bharat Express is designed for a maximum operational speed of 160 kmph and tested up to 180 kmph, representing a substantial step toward modernizing the nation’s rail network.The train offers Shatabdi-like travel classes with improved passenger amenities, delivering a superior travel experience focused on speed, safety, and service.
The Vande Bharat Express, India’s first indigenous semi-high-speed train, was entirely designed and manufactured at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai within just 18 months, showcasing the nation’s advanced engineering capabilities. This landmark project reflects the Government of India’s strong commitment to the ‘Make in India’ campaign.
Features and Amenities of Vande Bharat Express
1. Passenger Comfort and Convenience: Vande Bharat Express ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey with multiple passenger-centric features which have been mentioned below:
Bio-vacuum toilets for high hygiene standards.
Dual-mode lighting: general diffused illumination and personal lighting for each seat.
Pantry services in every coach offering hot meals, hot and cold beverages.
High insulation to minimize noise and maintain a comfortable temperature inside the coaches.
Fully sealed gangways and sensor-controlled interconnecting doors to provide a dust-free environment.
An improved air-conditioning system ensures comfortable travel in all weather conditions.
2. Modern Coaches: The train features 16 air-conditioned coaches, including 2 executive class coaches, accommodating a total of 1,128 passengers. The design shifts all electrical equipment below the coaches, increasing seating capacity compared to conventional trains. Furthermore, All coaches have automatic doors for enhanced safety and convenience.
3. Advanced Technology: The Vande Bharat Express integrates cutting-edge technology to provide a smarter and more convenient travel experience. It features a GPS-based audio-visual passenger information system that keeps travelers updated throughout the journey, while the onboard Wi-Fi hotspot allows passengers to stay connected and entertained.
4. Safety Features: Passenger safety is a top priority on the Vande Bharat Express. The train is equipped with a regenerative braking system that ensures precise acceleration and deceleration for smooth and safe travel. Additionally, fire survival cable indoor circuits are installed to provide extra protection during emergencies, ensuring a secure journey for all passengers.
5. Accessibility for All: The train is designed with Divyang-friendly facilities, ensuring accessibility and convenience for differently-abled passengers.
Building on the success of the Vande Bharat Express, Indian Railways unveiled the next-generation version, Vande Bharat 2.0, designed to deliver faster, safer, and more comfortable rail travel across India. The Vande Bharat 2.0 was developed during the challenging period of the COVID-19 pandemic.This upgraded train incorporates advanced technologies and enhanced passenger amenities to further strengthen India’s semi-high-speed rail capabilities.
Development and Production
On 21 January 2021, M/s Medha Servo Drives Ltd. received a contract worth ₹2,211 crore from Indian Railways to manufacture 44 Vande Bharat 2.0 trains, each comprising 16 coaches. This marked a substantial step in India’s “Make in India” initiative, emphasizing domestic engineering excellence and self-reliance in railway manufacturing.
First Vande Bharat 2.0
The first Vande Bharat 2.0 trainset was flagged off by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 30 September 2022, traveling from Gandhinagar to Mumbai, signifying a major milestone in India’s rail modernization journey.
Vande Bharat 3.0 : A New Definition of Comfort, Safety & Speed
The Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains 3.0, the sleeper version of Vande Bharat, have been specifically developed to cater to long-haul overnight journeys. The Indian Railways aims to revolutionize overnight rail travel for millions of passengers across the country by the sleeper variant of the Vande Bharat series, Developed under the Make in India initiative, Vande Bharat 3.0 reflects India’s ambition to offer world-class overnight rail services.
First Contract for Vande Bharat Sleeper Trainsets
On 23 May 2023, BEML secured a ₹675-crore contract from the Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Chennai, for the manufacture of the first 10 Vande Bharat Sleeper trainsets.
Flag-Off of India’s First Vande Bharat Sleeper Trainset
On 1 September 2024, the Hon’ble Union Minister for Railways, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, flagged off India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper trainset at BEML’s Bangalore rail complex. The sleeper version was designed by a dedicated team of engineers at ICF, while manufacturing was undertaken by BEML, a public sector enterprise formerly known as Bharat Earth Movers Limited.
Prototype Unveiling and Manufacturing Completion
In October 2024, the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) unveiled the prototype of the Vande Bharat Sleeper rake in Chennai. Subsequently, ICF completed the manufacturing of India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper trainset on 17 December 2024.
Indian Railways to Launch First Vande Bharat Sleeper on Patna-Delhi Route
Indian Railways is preparing to introduce the country’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper train on the Patna-New Delhi corridor, marking a major step forward in modern overnight rail services. Designed for long-distance travel, the new sleeper variant is expected to complete the nearly 1,000-kilometre journey in around eight hours, with a maximum operating speed of 160 kmph.
Trial operations for the train are in their final stages, and the official launch is likely before the New Year. The Patna-Delhi Vande Bharat Sleeper is planned to run six days a week and will feature 16 coaches equipped with a large number of berths. By deploying this train on one of the busiest rail routes in the country, Indian Railways aims to ease congestion while providing a premium travel option.
Prime Minister Flags Off Four New Vande Bharat Express Trains
In November 2025, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated four new Vande Bharat Express services from Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, further strengthening India’s modern rail network. This launch represents a significant step toward the Prime Minister’s vision of delivering faster, safer, and more comfortable travel through world-class railway infrastructure.
The newly introduced Vande Bharat Express trains will connect Banaras-Khajuraho, Lucknow-Saharanpur, Firozpur-Delhi, and Ernakulam-Bengaluru, offering passengers a swift and premium travel experience.
Expansion of Vande Bharat Express Services Across India
As of December 2025, Indian Railways has operationalized 164 world-class Vande Bharat Express train services, connecting major cities across the nation. These semi-high-speed trains have substantially enhanced intercity connectivity and passenger comfort. Of the total services currently in operation, 24 Vande Bharat Express trains serve stations in the state of Maharashtra, highlighting the state’s important role in India’s modern rail network.
Government of India’s Vision for 400 Vande Bharat Trainsets
In the Union Budget 2022- 23, Hon’ble Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman announced an ambitious plan to develop and manufacture 400 new-generation Vande Bharat trains within three years. These trains are designed to offer improved energy efficiency, advanced technology, and a superior riding experience, reinforcing the Government of India’s commitment to transforming railway infrastructure and passenger services nationwide.
Conclusion
The Vande Bharat Express has emerged as a cornerstone of India’s railway modernization, reflecting a clear shift from conventional rail operations to advanced, indigenous technology. Developed under the Make in India initiative, the Vande Bharat Express has set new standards in speed, safety, energy efficiency, and passenger comfort on key intercity routes. The steady progression from the Vande Bharat Express to Vande Bharat 2.0 and the sleeper variant of Vande Bharat highlights Indian Railways’commitment to continuous improvement and innovation. Each generation of Vande Bharat has addressed evolving passenger needs, ranging from faster daytime travel to efficient overnight long-distance journeys. With more than 160 Vande Bharat services already in operation and a national vision to introduce 400 next-generation trainsets, the Vande Bharat Express has become a key instrument in transforming India’s rail infrastructure.
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 held on 21-22 May 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi
KOCHI (Metro Rail News): Kochi Metro Rail Limited has invited bids for the design, manufacture, supply, installation, testing, and commissioning of a comprehensive telecommunication system for Phase-II of the Kochi Metro Rail Project.
Tender Overview
Tender Number
KBTL1/2026
Tender Issue Date
March 9, 2026
KMRL Reference Number
KMRL/PROC/TENDER/2025-26/103
Scope of Work
Design, Manufacture, Supply, Installation, Testing & Commissioning of Telecommunication System
March 17, 2026 at 11:00 hrs (physical + video conference)
Query Deadline
March 23, 2026 by 17:00 hrs (Format per Form 11)
EMD
₹86,50,000 (no MSE exemption)
Clarification Reply Date
On or before March 27, 2026
Bid Submission Deadline
April 6, 2026 @ 15:00 hrs
Technical Bid Opening
April 7, 2026 at 15:30 hrs
Scope of work: Design, Manufacture, Supply, Installation, Testing, and Commissioning of Telecommunication System for Phase-II of Kochi Metro Rail Project.
Kochi Metro Phase 2 (Pink Line) is an 11.2 km, 11-station elevated corridor connecting JLN Stadium to Infopark via Kakkanad. As of March 2026, construction is nearing 50% completion with viaduct installation underway.
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.Register Now: https://zma.page/ek9
KOCHI (Metro Rail News): Kochi Metro Rail Limited has issued an invitation for bids for the design, manufacturing, supply, installation, testing, and commissioning of heavy-duty escalators for Phase-II of the Kochi Metro Rail Project.
The comprehensive package encompasses complete end-to-end responsibility from conceptual design through final commissioning, ensuring seamless integration of escalator systems with Phase-II stations.
Tender Overview
Tender Number
KBE-03/2026
Tender Issue Date
March 9, 2026
KMRL Reference Number
KMRL/PROC/TENDER/2025-26/105
Scope of Work
Design, Manufacturing, Supply, Installation, Testing & Commissioning of Heavy-Duty Escalators
March 19, 2026 at 11:00 hrs (physical + video conference)
Tender Security
₹45,26,000 (no MSE exemption)
Addendum Deadline
March 27, 2026
Bid Submission Deadline
April 6, 2026 @ 15:00 hrs
Technical Bid Opening
April 7, 2026 at 15:30 hrs
Contract Scope
Design, Manufacturing, Supply, Installation, Testing & Commissioning of Heavy Duty Escalators for Phase II of The Kochi Metro Rail Project.
Kochi Metro Phase-II Context
Kochi Metro Phase 2 (Pink Line) is an 11.2 km, 11-station elevated corridor connecting JLN Stadium to Infopark via Kakkanad. As of March 2026, construction is nearing 50% completion with viaduct installation underway. Phase-II of the Kochi Metro Rail Project represents a significant expansion of Kerala’s first operational metro system, extending rapid transit connectivity to additional neighborhoods and activity centers across Greater Kochi.
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.
CHENNAI (Metro Rail News): Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has announced the TDC Contracting Private Limited as the lowest bidder for a contract which involves the supply, installation, testing, commissioning, and training of electrical, fire alarm and detection, fire fighting, ventilation and air conditioning (VAC), and building management system (BMS) works at nine elevated stations from Sholinganallur Lake to SIPCOT 2 Station, including stabling lines, on Corridor-3 of Chennai Metro Rail Project Phase-II.
Notably, Universal MEP offered an 8.94% discount on their quoted price and Toyota Tsusho a 2% discount, yet TDC Contracting’s base quote of ₹74,66,48,608 (ex-GST) remained the lowest across all evaluated bids. The three competing bidders were rejected at the financial evaluation stage. The award was signed by the Director (Systems and Operation), CMRL.
Project Context
The nine-station stretch from Sholinganallur Lake to SIPCOT 2 covers a high-density commuter corridor along Chennai’s OMR (Old Mahabalipuram Road) a major IT and industrial spine. The E&M systems package is critical to making the stations operationally ready, covering passenger safety systems (fire detection and fighting), environmental control (VAC), and integrated building management. The stabling lines at this location will support rolling stock maintenance and berthing for this section of Corridor-3.
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.
DELHI (METRO RAIL NEWS): Alstom, global leader in smart and sustainable mobility, joined Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) in celebrating the commencement of revenue service on Delhi Metro Line 7 and Line 8 extensions, with the opening of Majlis Park to Maujpur (Line 7 – Pink line) and Majlis Park to Deepali Chowk which in future will be extended up to RK Ashram and Janakpuri (Line 8 – Magenta line).
Alstom is supplying modern Metropolis metro trainsets for both Lines’ extensions along with signalling system for Line 7 extension which will contribute to further enhance seamless, sustainable connectivity for commuters across the National Capital Territory. The current section of Line-8 extension is strategically important as this provides interchangeability to three lines of Delhi Metro Network Yellow line (at Badli), Red Line (at Madhuban Chowk) and Pink Line (at Majlis Park).
Commenting on this milestone, Olivier Loison, Managing Director, Alstom India said, “We are honoured and proud to be a long-standing partner of DMRC through its journey of becoming one of the world’s largest metro networks today. Together, we are committed to providing a safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly travel experience to commuters and the Magenta and Pink line extension will truly enhance DMRC’s neural metro network connectivity in the region”.
As a part of a larger €312 million contract Alstom is currently supplying 312 cars for Delhi Metro Phase IV. These 100% made-in-India driverless (trains are designed for a 95 kph safe speed and 85 kph operational speed. Alstom’s long-standing partnership with DMRC has seen the delivery of more than 800 metro cars already in service across the Delhi Metro network. The comfortable Metropolis trainsets enabling this new service are entirely manufactured at Alstom’s state-of-the-art facility in Sricity, Andhra Pradesh, its largest urban rolling stock manufacturing site in Asia. The metro trains are designed for high recyclability and low energy consumption, supporting sustainable urban mobility.
Alstom has also deployed Urbalis Flo, signalling system, a Communications Based Train Control (CBTC) system for Line 7 extension. This state-of-the-art technology is designed to operate the trains in the future with Grade of Automation (GOA) 4 driverless features. With the operation of the extension to existing Line 7, also called the Pink Line, will become the first circular line in the Delhi Metro Network and also the longest metro line with the highest Unattended Train Operation level (GoA4) in India.
Recently, Alstom has strengthened its collaboration with Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) by securing a 10-year maintenance contract for Lines 1 & 2, encompassing comprehensive annual maintenance of trains, machinery, plant systems, and housekeeping at DMRC’s Badli depot.
Alstom has also partnered with DMRC for several other projects, including successful implementation of supply and commissioning of train control and signalling system for DMRC’s Red line(L1), (Yellow Line (L2), Green Line (L5), Violet Line (L6), Pink Line (L7) during Phase I, II & III. Alstom has also delivered metro trains and rail solutions for other Indian cities such as Chennai, Mumbai, Lucknow, Kochi, Agra, Kanpur, Bhopal and Indore. Recently, Alstom has also delivered world-class trains and signalling solutions for India’s first semi-high-speed regional rail network, NCRTC-RRTS, connecting Delhi – Ghaziabad – Meerut.
About Alstom in India
Alstom is the only multinational sustainable mobility provider in India, to have a comprehensive portfolio of offerings to meet customer specific needs and continues to be a strategic partner in supporting India’s rail revolution. With 6 industrial sites and 5 major engineering centres, the company caters to domestic as well as international project needs with its world class rolling stock, components, signalling and services solutions. Fully aligned with the country’s vision of Make-in-India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, Alstom remains deeply committed to strengthening its local sourcing and supply chain ecosystem.
NAVI MUMBAI (Metro Rail News): Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited has issued an e-tender notice for providing preventive and corrective maintenance as well as intermediate overhauling for Navi Mumbai Metro Line 1’s rolling stock and depot equipment.
Tender Overview
Tender Notice Number
NM1-O&M-25/2026
Tender Issue Date
March 6, 2026
Contract Period
5 years commencing from November 1, 2026
Document Cost
₹35,400 (inclusive of GST, non-refundable)
Pre-Bid Meeting
March 18, 2026 at 11:00 hrs (video conference)
Bid Security (EMD)
₹7,71,000 (MSE exemption available as per GFR-2017)
Bid Submission Period
April 13, 2026 (11:00 hrs) to April 20, 2026 (16:00 hrs)
Technical Bid Opening
April 21, 2026 after 16:30 hrs
Scope of Work
Providing Preventive & Corrective Maintenance And Intermediate Overhauling (IOH) for Navi Mumbai Metro Line 1: Rolling Stock & Depot Equipment.
Navi Mumbai Metro Line 1
Currently, Line 1 of the Navi Mumbai Metro Rail Project is operational, spanning 11.1 km between CBD Belapur and Pendhar. The corridor comprises 11 stations and serves as the first operational metro line in Navi Mumbai.
DELHI (Metro Rail News): Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated 2 new sections of the Delhi Metro on Sunday, March 8, 2026, under Phase 4. The inauguration of the Majlis Park-Maujpur Babarpur section of the Pink Line and the Deepali Chowk-Majlis Park stretch of the Magenta Line represents a historic milestone in Delhi’s public transportation infrastructure.
The Prime Minister also laid foundation stones for development projects worth approximately ₹33,500 crore, including three new metro routes under Phase-V(A).
Inaugurated Corridors Overview
Inauguration Date
March 8, 2026
Pink Line Extension
Majlis Park-Maujpur Babarpur (12.3 km, 8 stations)
Magenta Line Extension
Deepali Chowk-Majlis Park (9.9 km, 7 stations)
Total Pink Line Length
71.56 km (India’s first complete ring metro)
Total Magenta Line Length
Approximately 49 km
Pink Line: India’s First Ring Metro
The Majlis Park-Maujpur Babarpur corridor spans 12.3 kilometres and includes eight elevated stations, completing the Pink Line’s circular configuration. With this addition, the Pink Line extends to approximately 71.56 kilometres, establishing India’s first fully operational ‘ring metro’ that encircles large parts of Delhi without requiring passengers to change lines for circular travel.
Magenta Line Extension
The Deepali Chowk-Majlis Park corridor extends the Magenta Line by 9.9 kilometres, increasing its total length to approximately 49 kilometres. This elevated extension of the Botanical Garden-Krishna Park Extension Magenta Line integrates several residential and commercial areas in northwest Delhi into the metro network.
Phase-V(A) Foundation Stones
PM Modi laid foundation stones for three new corridors under Delhi Metro Phase-V(A), covering approximately 16.1 kilometres of route length:
Central Vista Corridor: RK Ashram Marg to Indraprastha (9.9 km underground)
Aerocity to Indira Gandhi Airport Terminal-1 (2.26 km underground, Golden Line extension)
Tughlakabad to Kalindi Kunj (3.9 km elevated, Golden Line extension)
These corridors will provide direct connectivity to Delhi’s administrative hub (Central Vista), improve airport access, and enhance connections between Noida, south Delhi, and the airport. The Central Vista corridor will serve government offices and cultural institutions in the redeveloped zone, while the airport extensions facilitate seamless multimodal transportation.
Connectivity Impact
The new metro corridors benefit residents across multiple Delhi neighbourhoods, ending the long-standing transportation isolation of northeast Delhi areas. The comprehensive connectivity improvements address decades of inadequate public transportation access in rapidly growing residential zones.
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.
