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.
Agra (Metro Rail News): On 1 January, the Agra Metro project reached another milestone with the breakthrough of TBM S-718 at Agra College Station on 14.25 Line 1 which connects Sikandra with Taj East Gate.
TBM Breakthroughs for Agra Metro Project
Package Details: This breakthrough was part of Package AGCC-02, which connects the RBS Ramp to the Taj Mahal Ramp.
TBM Details: With its final drive TBM S-718C achieved its 5th breakthrough for Agra Metro.
Overall Progress: So far 16 breakthroughs have been achieved for the Agra Metro Phase 1 project.
TBM S-718C’s Journey
Assignment
Segment
Length
2 Assignments
Taj Mahal Station to Taj Mahal Ramp
228m upline + 236m downline (twin tunnels)
3rd Assignment
RBS Ramp to RBS College Station
734m
4th Assignment
RBS College to Raja Ki Mandi Station
685m
5th Assignment (current assignment)
Raja Ki Mandi Station to Agra College Interchange Station
535m
Package AGCC-02
In March 2022, Afcons – Sam India Consortium secured package AGCC-02 from Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation at Rs. 1819.79 crore. The deadline for this contract is 48 months.
Upcoming Developments
The remaining 2 breakthroughs for Agra Metro Phase 1 are planned at Mankameshwar Station (formerly known as Jama Masjid), involving Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) 215 and 324.
Bangalore (Metro Rail News): BMRCL has declared Jakson Ltd. as the lowest bidder for the electrical & mechanical contract of the Blue Line of Bangalore Metro (Namma Metro.
Blue Line of Bangalore Metro
Phase 2A and Phase 2B form Bangalore Metro’s 57 km long Blue Line.
Phase 2A: This covers 18.236 km via an elevated route. This line will connect Central Silkboard with KR Puram along the Outer Ring Road (ORR) through 13 stations.
Phase 2B: This spans about 37 km and will connect KR Puram with Kempegowda International Airport (KIAL) Terminals via 18 stations.
Note: Under this contract, the E&M work will be executed at 28 stations of Blue Line. The E&M works at the Airport City Metro Station and KIA Terminal Station will executed via different contracts.
Bids of Contractors
In September 2024, BMRCL initiated bidding for Package E&M-6. In October 2024, BMRCL revealed the names of 5 bidders for this contract. However, the bids of Power Mech Projects and Toyota Tsusho India were rejected in the technical evaluation. The financial bids of technically qualified bidders are the following:
Firm
Bid Price
Jakson Ltd
Rs. 197.04 crore
Blue Star Ltd
Rs. 210.18 crore
Universal MEP (Voltas’ subsidiary)
Rs. 221.99 crore
Brief Scope: The contractor appointed under this contract will execute Electrical and Mechanical works, including LT panels, LT cables, lighting, hydraulics, fire safety systems, UPS, DG sets, HVAC, and BMS. These works cover 28 elevated stations, 2 wayside TSS, and the cut-and-cover section of the BMRCL Phase 2A and 2B project.
Metro Rail News wishes you a very Happy New Year 2025 with boundless joy, prosperity, and fulfilment! As we step into 2025, we are celebrating 10 years of Metro Rail News. This achievement would not have been possible without the support of our 1.2 million readers, who drive our passion and commitment to excellence.
On January 26, 2015, we launched this platform with a mission to provide the latest updates in the Metro & Railway industry. Looking back over the past decade, I am proud of the progress we’ve made and the trust we have earned. With a commitment to delivering the latest updates and insights from the metro rail industry, we are excited to continue this journey and remain a trusted source of information for you. This year, we are also excited to announce the 5th edition of InnoMetro. With your invaluable support, we are excited to host InnoMetro 2025 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi – on May 21–22, 2025. This year, we aim to provide a better experience and more opportunities, making it a global exhibition in the field of rail transportation.
The journey we’ve shared in the world of urban mobility has been nothing short of inspiring, and we are excited about the possibilities that the upcoming year holds for the industry. To our dedicated readers, contributors, advertisers and partners, thank you for being an integral part of Symbroj Media and showing your belief in “Metro Rail News” & “InnoMetro”.
Celebrating 10 years of trust and support from all of you, we announce the launch of the Metro Rail News Awards, recognizing and celebrating the outstanding achievements and contributions of individuals in the metro and rail industry! As we begin another year, we remain committed to delivering valuable information and exceptional content to all our readers.
We look forward to another year of collaboration, innovation, and shared success. Again, Wishing you and your loved ones a joyous New Year filled with new discoveries, meaningful connections, and exciting accomplishments. May 2024 fulfil your aspirations and bring prosperity into your lives. With Best Regards, Narendra Shah Managing Editor Metro Rail News editor@metrorailnews.in
Bhubaneswar (Metro Rail News): IL&FS Engineering and Construction Company shares surged 5% to ₹41.05 during intraday trading after the company bagged a ₹302.82 crore contract from Ceigall India for Bhubaneswar Metro Phase-I’s construction between between Trisulia Square – Biju Patnaik Airport.
Bhubaneswar Metro’s Package BBC-05
Originally this civil contract was awarded to Ceigall India in August 2024 at Rs 898.99 crore contract with a 36-month deadline. This package is the longest among the three main-line civil packages and includes the following:
Route:
Connects KIIT Square to Trisulia Square.
Stations Covered (Elevated):
Nandan Vihar
Raghunathpur
Nandankanan Zoological Park
Barang Station
Phulapokhari
Trisulia Square
IL&FS’ Scope of Work
Under this subcontract from Ceigall India, IL&FS Engineering will be responsible for Part Design and Construction of the Elevated Viaduct from Chainage 15095.24m to 26052.77m including a ramp for Depot entry and restoration works within the barrication of Bhubaneswar Metro Phase-I MRTS on Back-to-Back basis
Additional Scope:
Construction of a ramp leading to the Phulapokhari Depot & Workshop. This depot is under construction by M I A Construction.
Current Progress:
Ceigall India is in the process of setting up their casting yard for the project.
Representation Purpose Only | AFC gates on Singapore’s Downtown Line
(Metro Rail News): Showing its prowess in AFC technology, Aurionpro has secured a major Automated Fare Collection (AFC) contract worth ₹39,09,65,419.34 for the Delhi Metro under Package AFC-07. This is the second major contract secured by Aurionpro in India, following Chennai Metro.
Scope of Work under Delhi Metro’s Package AFC-07
Under this contract, Aurionpro is responsible for the Design, Manufacture, Supply, Installation, Testing and Commissioning of Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) Gates for different Operational Stations in the Existing Phase I, II and III Networks of Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC).
Deadline: 18 months (1.5 years)
Aligning with Make in India Initiative
As per the release “The AFC gates for this project will be fully manufactured in India at Aurionpro’s state-of-the-art facility in Ghaziabad, aligning with the government’s “Make in India” initiative”
Official Statement from Aurionpro Solutions
On this major development, Mr Sanjay Bali, President & Global Head – Tech Innovation Group, Aurionpro Solutions, stated, “We are honoured to partner with Delhi Metro Rail Corporation, a pioneer and symbol of excellence in India’s urban transit systems. This prestigious project not only reinforces our growing presence and acceptance as a major player in the Indian smart transit space but also highlights our commitment to innovation and ‘Make in India’ through locally manufactured solutions. The gates, validators, and payment card readers to be delivered under this project are robust, indigenously developed Aurionpro products. Following our recent success in Chennai, this win with Delhi Metro marks a significant milestone, highlighting our expanding footprint on the metro map of India and globe.”.
J&K (Metro Rail News): Indian Railways recently conducted a successful first-loaded train trial run on the Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge, located in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir.
This development is a crucial step in linking the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country by rail. Services on this vital connection are anticipated to begin in January 2025.
This development was shared by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw through a video of the trial run on the social media platform X on 28 December 2024.
The Ministry of Railways mentioned “The trial run on the Anji Khad Bridge, a key component of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL) project, has been successfully completed.”
Key Features of the Anji Khad Bridge
Engineering Marvel: The Anji Khad Bridge is India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge.
Pylon Design: The bridge features a single pylon rising to a height of 331 meters above the riverbed.
Cable Support: It is supported by 48 cables, providing stability to its lateral and central spans.
Total Length: The bridge spans a total length of 473.25 meters.
Viaduct and Embankment: The structure includes a 120-meter viaduct and a central embankment measuring 94.25 meters.
Second-Highest Railway Bridge: The Anji Khad Bridge is the second-highest railway bridge in India, following the Chenab Bridge, which holds the world record at 359 meters above the riverbed. Both bridges are part of the USBRL project.
Chenab Bridge
USBRL Project Overview
The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project establishes connectivity between the Kashmir Valley with the rest of India through a broad-gauge railway line. The project covers a total distance of 272 kilometres of which 255 kilometres of the project has been completed. The remaining stretch between Katra and Reasi is expected to be completed by December 2024.
Key Highlights
Structural Details:
The project includes 38 tunnels, of which 12.75-kilometre long Tunnel T-49 on the Khari-Sumber section, is set to be the longest railway tunnel in India.
It also incorporates major bridges such as the Chenab Bridge and the Anji Khad Bridge.
Travel Time Reduction:
The project will reduce travel time between Jammu and Srinagar from approximately 12 hours to 6 hours.
Cost:
The construction cost of the project is estimated at ₹ 37,012 crore.
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) celebrated its 22nd anniversary of the commencement of its passenger operations. It was on 24th December 2002 that the first Delhi Metro train, TS-01, was flagged off by the then Prime Minister, Sh. Atal Bihari Vajpayee, introducing a new era of modern public transport in Delhi NCR.
TS-01 Train
The TS-01 train, which started DMRC’s journey, has carved a legacy of its own in bringing modern public transport to Delhi. Commissioned in 2002, TS-01 began as a 4-coach train but has been upgraded over the years to meet growing passenger demand, and expanded to 6 coaches in 2014 and further to 8 coaches in 2023. Over its 22-year journey, TS-01 has been a symbol of reliability and efficiency, covering approximately 27 lakh kilometers, safely transporting over 5.4 crore passengers, and executing an impressive 23 lakh door operations.
Manufactured by the MRM Consortium in South Korea, the train was transported to Kolkata by ship and then to Delhi via the Indian Railways network. Its advanced propulsion system has not only ensured smooth operations but also contributed to environmental sustainability by regenerating approximately 40% of the total power consumed through regenerative braking.
To ensure smooth operations and passenger safety, TS-01 has undergone two major overhauls/upgrades by DMRC’s expert maintenance teams. As a result, TS-01 has consistently maintained a Mean Distance Between Failures (MDBF) of 84,000 kilometers, significantly exceeding the contractual requirement of 40,000 kilometers
To keep up with modern standards, TS-01 has recently undergone a mid-life refurbishment to provide passengers with enhanced features and comfort. The upgrades include advanced passenger systems such as real-time route maps, safety videos, CCTV for added security, and emergency alarms for convenience. The doors have been refurbished, and a new fire detection system has been installed to boost safety. For passenger comfort, mobile and laptop charging outlets have also been added, along with a fresh interior and exterior repainting to improve aesthetics.
*As a proud testimony of DMRC’s impeccable maintenance mechanism and upkeep schedule, train TS-01 continues to operate passenger services even today on the Red Line as the first among equals from Delhi Metro’s ever expanding fleet of over 350 train sets. The train was also in operation today and to celebrate this special occasion, it was decorated with flowers and a commemorative banner.*
As DMRC celebrates its 22nd anniversary, it also reflects on a year of record achievements, including the highest-ever single-day passenger journeys of 78.67 lakh recorded on 18th November 2024. With significant advancements in digital ticketing, technological upgrades, and ongoing Phase-IV expansions, DMRC is leading in its mission to transform urban transportation and enhance the quality of life of the residents of Delhi NCR.
To connect with the Namo Bharat commuters and to provide an opportunity to avail 10% discount on Namo Bharat tickets, NCRTC has launched a Loyalty points programme for tickets purchased through the ‘RRTS Connect’ mobile application.
The initiative was launched by Shri Shalabh Goel, MD, NCRTC, at the Sahibabad RRTS station in the presence of senior officials and commuters. During the event, he also unveiled the first edition of Namo Bharat Times, a bi-monthly commuter newsletter.
About Loyalty Points Program
Under the loyalty points program, passengers will earn 1 point for every rupee spent on the Namo Bharat train tickets. Each loyalty point is valued at ₹0.10 (10 paise) and will be credited to the passenger’s account. These points can be redeemed for ticket purchases.
Every new user will receive ₹50 which is equivalent to 500 loyalty points upon downloading the ‘RRTS Connect’ mobile app. Commuters can earn an additional 500 loyalty points by referring the RRTS Connect app to other users. Both the referrer and the referee will receive ₹50 equivalent to 500 loyalty points each, which will be credited to their respective accounts. All accrued loyalty points will remain valid for one year from the date of credit, encouraging frequent, sustainable travel and ongoing app engagement. The ‘RRTS Connect’ app is available for download on Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Aim Behind Loyalty Points Program
This initiative will not only benefit the passengers monetarily but also encourage the use of digital QR tickets through the ‘RRTS Connect’ app. It will also be simplifying travel through paperless ticketing. This environment–friendly measure is in line with NCRTC’s vision of improving the quality of life of people by providing equitable, fast, reliable, safe, comfortable, efficient and sustainable mobility solutions.
These customer-centric initiatives reaffirm NCRTC’s steadfast commitment to enhancing affordability, convenience, and the overall travel experience for Namo Bharat commuters. They underscore NCRTC’s dedication to adopting innovative solutions that promote modern, responsible, and efficient transportation.
Namo Bharat Times
The bi-monthly newsletter, Namo Bharat Times, unveiled recently, will be freely available for download on all digital platforms of NCRTC such as ncrtc.in, rrts.co.in etc., including the ‘RRTS Connect’ app. This newsletter will keep Namo Bharat commuters informed about new initiatives and recent developments, enhancing their connection with the service and providing valuable updates. The newsletter serves as a comprehensive source of information, highlighting commuter-focused activities, travel needs, available station facilities, and stories that celebrate the individuals who make the RRTS system thrive. It provides opportunities for commuters of all ages to be featured and recognizes their participation in various events organised by NCRTC.
‘RRTS Connect’ App
The ‘RRTS Connect’ App is designed with commuter-centric features to enhance passenger convenience and streamline the travel experience. Beyond offering a seamless ticket booking process, the app provides several innovative tools to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey:
Live Train Tracking: Passengers can track trains in real-time to plan their commute effectively.
Real-Time Parking Availability: Stay updated on available parking spots at RRTS stations.
Station Navigation: Access detailed station layouts and navigation assistance for hassle-free movement.
Last-Mile Connectivity Options: Discover and book options such as bikes, autos, and cabs directly through integrated services like the Rapido app.
Additional Features Provided By ‘RRTS Connect’ App
The app also includes key features for additional convenience:
Feeder Bus Services: View bus schedules and connections to and from RRTS stations.
Station Facilities: Access detailed information about station amenities, such as drinking water, restrooms, lifts, escalators, and more.
Direct Assistance: Connect with the station control room via phone or WhatsApp for support.
Lost & Found: Report and recover misplaced items conveniently through the app.
Purchase of Delhi Metro tickets: Passengers can purchase Delhi Metro Ticket through the App.
These features work together to make commuting on Namo Bharat trains more convenient, comfortable, and stress-free, underscoring NCRTC’s commitment to delivering a passenger-friendly travel experience.
Bangalore (Metro Rail News): Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation opened the technical bids of all the three Detailed Designed Consultant (DDC) Contracts for the 44.65 km Bangalore Metro Phase 3 project and revealed the names of 6 bidders.
Bangalore Metro Phase 3
Phase 3 will increase the connectivity in Western Bangalore by covering a total distance of 44.65 km via 2 new corridors.
Corridor 1 (Orange Line): This will span 32.15 km connecting Kempapura – JP Nagar 4th Phase through 22 stations along the Outer Ring Road (ORR)
Corridor 2: This route will cover 12.5 km distance between Kadabagare – Hosahalli via 9 stations.
Three DDC Packages by BMRCLfor Phase 3
Package DDC-1: This includes the 17 km section of the Orange Line from JP Nagar 4th Phase Station to BDA Complex Nagarbhavi Station.
Package DDC-2: This covers the 12.848 km section of the Orange Line from Sumanahalli Cross Station to Kempapura Station.
Package DDC-3: This covers the entire Kadabagare – Hosahalli corridor.
Bidding Process
BMRCL initiated the bidding for these three DDC contracts in October 2024. For each contract, BMRCL received 6 bids and a total of 18 bids for 3 contracts. The deadline for this work is 1460 days (4 years).
Bidders for Detailed Design Consultant Contracts
AECOM Singapore Pte. Ltd.
L&T Infrastructure Engineering Ltd.
Meinhardt (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.
Shirish Patel and Associates Consultants Pvt. Ltd.
SMEC International Pty. Ltd.
SYSTRA MVA Consulting (India)
The Scope of Three DDC Contracts
Package: DDC-1
EMD: INR 13.15 Lakhs
Deadline: 48 Months
Scope: Detailed Design Consultancy Services for all Structures including Elevated Viaduct, Double Decker, Single Decker/Double Decker Stations, Entry/Exit Structures, Loops and Ramps for Road Flyovers, Subways, FOBs, Multi-Modal Integration Structure, etc. from JP Nagar 4th Phase Station (Excl) to BDA Complex Nagarbhavi Station (Incl) (from Chainage: -0.330 to 16.791) of Corridor-1 for Bangalore Metro Rail Project, Phase-3
Package:DDC-2
EMD: INR 14.03 Lakhs
Deadline: 48 Months
Scope: Detailed Design Consultancy Services for all Structures including Elevated Viaduct, Double Decker, Single Decker/Double Decker Stations, Entry/Exit Structures, Loops and Ramps of Flyovers, Subways, FOBs, Multi-Modal Integration Structure etc. from Sumanahalli Cross Station (Excl) to Kempapura Station (Excl) (from Chainage: 17.473 to 30.321) of Corridor-1 for Bangalore Metro Rail Project, Phase-3
Package:DDC-3
EMD: INR 12.22 Lakhs
Deadline: 48 Months
Scope: Detailed Design Consultancy Services for all Structures including Elevated Viaduct, Double Decker, Single Decker/Double Decker Stations, Entry/Exit Structures, Loops and Ramps for Road Flyovers, Subways, FOBs, Multi Modal Integration Structure and Depots etc. from Hosahalli Station (Incl) to Kadabagere Station (Incl) with Lap Portion and Sumanahalli Cross Station, Depots at Sumanahalli and Peenya (from Chainage: -0.450 to 12.050) of Corridor-2 for Bangalore Metro Rail Project, Phase-3
The Process Ahead
The bids for these contracts have undergone technical evaluation. Following this process BMRCL will reveal the financial bids of technically qualified bidders to identify the lowest bidders for these contracts.
The Ongoing Work in Phase 3
The geotechnical soil investigation for both lines has been ongoing since September. This work is being carried out under four contracts by SECON, Manglam Consultancy Services, and Myrtle Project and Consultancy.
Nagpur (Metro Rail News): The 43.8 km Nagpur Metro Phase 2 will get financial assistance of Rs 1,527 crore from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) which will boost the project in multifaceted ways.
On 17 December, Shravan Hardikar, Managing Director of Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation (Maha Metro) and Mr. Mio Oka, ADB director signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in the presence of Chief Minister Mr. Devendra Fadnavis in the cabinet hall of the Vidhan Bhavan.
Image Credit: CMO Maharashtra
MoU signed for 200 million USD loan for Nagpur Metro Phase-II in the presence of Maharashtra CM Shri Devendra Fadnavis.
MoHUA, Maha Metro, and ADB signed MoU for a 200 million USD loan for Phase-II of Nagpur Metro, in the presence of Hon. Maharashtra CM Shri Devendra Fadnavis at… pic.twitter.com/IO08uKkfV4
A total funding of Rs 3,586 crore will be secured for Nagpur Metro Phase 2 from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the European Investment Bank (EIB).
MahaMetro will obtain the funding for Phase II of the Nagpur Metro Rail Project in Japanese Yen, which will help secure lower interest rates on the loan.
The disbursement of the loan will be managed through the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA).
About Nagpur Metro Phase 2
TheNagpur Metro Rail Project Phase-II will cover a total distance of 43.8 kilometres and include 4 key routes:
18.7 kilometres from Khapri to MIDC ESR (Reach 1A), Orange Line.
13 kilometres from Automotive Square to Kanhan River (Reach 2A & Reach 2B), Orange Line.
6.6 kilometres from Lokmanya Nagar to Hingna (Reach 3A), Aqua Line.
5.5 kilometres from Prajapati Nagar to Transport Nagar Reach 4A Aqua Line.
This extension of the Nagpur Metro will streamline the connectivity and is expected to benefit approximately 1 million residents in the Nagpur region.
