Chennai Metro phase 2, corridor 5: first U Girders erected

SMEC has been serving as the Detailed Design Consultant for the Chennai Metro ECV02 Construction Contract Package since 2019, in collaboration with esteemed JV partners, MM Spa (Italy) & MMSB Consult (Malaysia).

On Thursday, 20^th July 2023, a momentous event took place as we achieved the erection of the First Full Span Precast U Girder at Adyar River, Corridor 5.

The task involved precise coordination and tandem lifting, using two 500-ton and 400-ton capacity DEMAG cranes. Thanks to meticulous planning and adherence to safety protocols, the erection of the first U span was completed in an impressive 45 minutes.

With the dedication and expertise of our team and continuous encouragement of management, this remarkable project is making steady progress. Construction is in full swing both at the metro sites and casting yards. The team has successfully utilized precast components extensively for viaducts and stations to optimize speed, quality, and safety.

The U girders being erected at Chennai metro are significant because they will help to reduce the construction time of the metro phase-2 elevated corridors by more than 80% compared to other forms of structures, and they can also support a wider range of loads. Hoisted onto the top of the pillars by launching gantry further prevents disruption to traffic on the ground, which is a major advantage in urban areas like Chennai. U girders are also stronger, durable and inspectable than traditional structural forms. This means that they can be used to build longer and more complex viaducts.

The event was graced by representatives from Chennai Metro Rail including Mr. T. Archunan (Director Projects), Ms. Rekha Prakash (Chief General Manager), Mr. Subramanian Narayanaswamy (CGM Elevated Construction), other Chennai Metro Rail officials and Senior Management from Larsen & Toubro. We extend our gratitude to the contractor, M/s Larsen & Toubro, for implementing best practice safety processes, through detailed kinematics method statements and checklists.

This construction package is particularly intricate, featuring various special spans, balance cantilevers, and steel composites. These structures traverse the existing phase 1 metro and highways, supported by tall piers at Rail Level 45.8m and navigating sharp turns with a radius of 120m.

The day was celebrated with colleagues from Chennai Metro Rail, Larsen & Toubro, key stake holders and DDC JV SMEC-MMSPA-MMSB. Together, we are committed to delivering excellence and shaping a brighter future for our communities.

The new metro line is expected to commence a phased opening from the third quarter of 2025.

Location

Chennai, India

Expertise

Metro Light Rail Transport Planning & Advisory

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