Aarvee wins DPR Consultancy Contract for Chennai Metro's Airport Line Corridor

Chennai, India (Metro Rail Today): In a recent development, Aarvee Associates Architects Engineers and Consultants Pvt. Ltd. has emerged as the lowest bidder to undertake the preparation of a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the extension of Chennai Metro’s Line-4 from Poonamallee Bypass to Parandur Airport, as announced by Chennai Metro Rail Ltd. (CMRL).

The ongoing construction of Chennai’s Line-4, spanning 26.1 kilometers between Light House and Poonamallee Bypass, forms an integral part of the ambitious 116.1 km Chennai Metro Phase 2 initiative. Notably, a consultancy was enlisted by CMRL in April 2023 to assess the feasibility of extending the line to Sriperumbudur, with an estimated length ranging between 15 to 17 kilometers.

Following the state government's decision in late 2023, the line extension plan was further expanded to encompass Chennai’s new greenfield airport in Parandur, situated approximately 40 kilometers from Poonamallee.

In February 2024, CMRL invited bids for the DPR consultant contract, stipulating a 180-day deadline and an undisclosed estimated project cost. Subsequently, technical bids were evaluated in April 2024, revealing the participation of five bidders. However, the bid submitted by AECOM India – URS Scott Wilson India JV was deemed non-compliant with the tender conditions, resulting in its disqualification.

Financial bid assessments, conducted on May 21, yielded the following outcomes:

• Aarvee Associates: ₹2.05 Crore
• SYSTRA MVA Consulting: ₹2.14 Crore
• Balaji Railroad Systems Pvt. Ltd: ₹2.27 Crore
• Urban Mass Transit Company: ₹3.10 Crore

Speculative illustrations depicting the potential alignment of the proposed metro extension, primarily along NH-48, have been presented. Additionally, there is a possibility of the route aligning with the under-construction 260 km Bangalore – Chennai Expressway between Sunguvarchatram and Parandur.

With regards to the contract issuance prospects, it remains contingent upon further updates from CMRL. Anticipating a potential contract award in June, stakeholders may await the unveiling of the DPR’s initial draft in the first quarter of 2025 (January – March), subject to CMRL’s decision to disclose such information.

The forthcoming DPR is poised to furnish comprehensive insights into various facets of the project, encompassing route composition, station distribution, depot establishment, rolling stock requirements, ridership projections, operational strategies, and overall expenditure.

CMRL’s previous indications suggest the procurement of trains capable of operating at higher speeds than conventional metro trains, with a design speed exceeding 90 kmph. Moreover, the Parandur Airport precinct is expected to host multiple stations, complemented by an aerocity featuring commercial, retail, and hotel developments akin to those observed in Delhi, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad.

In summary, Aarvee Associates’ successful bid for the DPR consultancy marks a significant stride forward in advancing the Chennai Metro Parandur Airport Line project, underscoring the commitment towards bolstering urban connectivity and fostering sustainable development within the region.