11 Firms submit bid for Geotechnical Soil Investigation Contract for Mumbai Metro Line 11

Mumbai, India (Metro Rail Today): In a significant development for Mumbai’s expanding metro network, eleven firms have submitted bids for the geotechnical soil investigation contract for the city’s upcoming Metro Line 11 (Green Line). This critical contract will facilitate the essential groundwork for constructing an 18-kilometer stretch of underground metro connecting Anik Bus Depot to SPM Chowk, via 15 strategically located stations.

Mumbai’s Metro Line 11, also known as the Green Line, represents a major advancement in the city’s transportation infrastructure. As the third underground metro line in Mumbai, following the Aqua Line (Line-3) and the Red Line (Line-7A), it will significantly enhance the city’s connectivity and ease traffic congestion. This newly redesigned line will serve as a crucial link across several key areas of Mumbai, improving access and mobility for residents and businesses alike.

The redesigned alignment of Line-11 is set to feature a series of underground stations, including Anik Bus Depot, Wadala Depot, CGS Colony, Ganesh Nagar, BPT Hospital, Sewri, Hay Bunder, Coal Bunder (Darukhana), Reay Road, Byculla, Nagpada Junction, Bhendi Bazaar, Crawford Market, CSMT Metro (interchange with Line-3 / Aqua Line), Horniman Circle, and SPM Circle. The project's scope includes extensive geotechnical investigations to ensure a robust and reliable construction phase.

The primary objective of the geotechnical investigation is to gather comprehensive data on the sub-soil conditions along the proposed metro route. This information is vital for the detailed design and construction phases, helping to select appropriate construction methods and technologies while minimizing potential damage to existing structures. The investigation will also support the optimal use of machinery and methods, ensuring a smooth and efficient construction process.

Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. (MMRC) has invited bids for this geotechnical investigation contract, which was opened in late August. The bidding firms are tasked with conducting a thorough examination of the soil and geological conditions, which will directly influence the construction strategy for this major urban infrastructure project.

The eleven firms competing for the geotechnical contract include a mix of well-established and specialized companies:

• CEG Test House And Research Centre Pvt. Ltd.
• C E Testing Company Pvt. Ltd.
• Genstru Consultants Pvt. Ltd.
• Geomarine Dynamics India Pvt. Ltd.
• Idhitri Geoservices Pvt. Ltd.
• Independent Consultants and Technocrats
• Monarch Surveyors & Engineering Consultants Ltd.
• Myrtle Project And Consultancy Pvt. Ltd.
• Pureways Infra Pvt. Ltd.
• SKW Soil and Survey Co
• S & R Geotechniques Pvt. Ltd.

These firms will be evaluated on their technical capabilities and experience, with a focus on their ability to meet the detailed requirements set forth by MMRC.

Following the submission of bids, the MMRC will undertake a technical evaluation process, which is expected to conclude within a month. This phase involves scrutinizing each bid to ensure that the proposed methodologies and technologies align with the project’s specifications. Only those bids that meet the technical criteria will advance to the financial bid stage.

The financial bids of the qualified firms will then be opened to determine the lowest bidder. The selected contractor will be responsible for conducting the geotechnical investigations, including drilling boreholes along the metro line and analyzing soil and geological conditions.

The scope of work for the geotechnical investigation includes:

• Borehole Drilling: Boreholes of 150mm diameter will be drilled at regular intervals of 500 meters along the twin tunnel alignment, with three boreholes required at each station site area. The depth of these boreholes will vary, with drilling extending to depths of 10 meters, 20 meters, and beyond, as per the consultant’s plan.
• Data Submission: The contractor will be required to provide a comprehensive report including borehole details, georeferenced coordinates, area geology, water table levels, test results, foundation recommendations, cutoff values, soil bearing capacities, and seismicity assessments.

The geotechnical investigation is just one of several preparatory steps for the Line 11 project. Subsequent phases will include securing financing, developing detailed designs, appointing consultants for environmental impact assessments (EIA) and social impact assessments (SIA), and conducting civil tendering processes.

While the geotechnical investigation is crucial, construction on Mumbai Metro Line 11 is not expected to commence until at least 2027. This timeline accounts for the thorough planning and preparation required to ensure the successful execution of the project.

The bid for the geotechnical soil investigation contract for Mumbai Metro Line 11 marks a pivotal step in the realization of this major urban infrastructure project. With eleven firms vying for the contract, the rigorous evaluation process will ensure that the selected contractor possesses the expertise and capabilities necessary to support the successful development of this vital metro line. As Mumbai continues to expand its metro network, projects like Line 11 will play a crucial role in enhancing the city’s connectivity, reducing traffic congestion, and supporting sustainable urban growth.

For further information and updates on the Mumbai Metro Line-11 project and other urban infrastructure developments stay tuned with Metro Rail Today!