Patna (Metro Rail News ): ABS Aircon Engineers Pvt. Ltd. has emerged as the lowest bidder for installing Electrical & Mechanical (E&M) systems and other infrastructure within the walkway tunnel linking Patna Museum and Bihar Museum in Patna, Bihar.
This groundbreaking project entails the construction of a 1.5 km long underground passage connecting both museums, between Bailey Road and Chajju Bagh. To facilitate the work, an 8-meter diameter tunnel boring machine (TBM), will be deployed at a depth of 16.5 meters.
The tunnel’s ₹374.12 crore civil construction contract (Package PC-08R) was granted to Larsen & Toubro (L&T) in December 2023. Subsequently, in January 2024, DMRC floated the tender for its systems work (Package PE-09) with an estimated budget of ₹30.85 crore and a two-year completion timeline.
| Firm | Bid value |
| ABS Aircon Engineers | 36.15 crore |
| EFKON India | 44.40 crore |
Scope of Contract:
The scope of the contract includes the design, detailed engineering, supply, installation, testing, and commissioning of Electrical and Mechanical Systems, fire detection and suppression systems, DG Sets, elevators, and Building Management System (BMS) work for the subway connecting Patna Museum and Bihar Museum in Patna.
The tunnel, equipped with air conditioning, will serve as an art gallery and provide transportation via battery-operated golf carts. On each end, entry/exit structures will include amenities such as a security checkpoint, a goods lift (service elevator), and restroom facilities.
Patna Metro Line 1
The 16.86 km Line 1 (Danapur Cantonment – Khemni Chak) features twin tunnels that will run underneath this subway tunnel. The clearance between these tunnels will be maintained at a vertical height of 6.5 meters.
ABS’ bid of Rs. 36.15 crore surpassed DMRC’s estimate by 16.80%, a moderate difference. Consequently, it’s probable that the contract will be awarded after some negotiation and discussion.
