Jaipur, India (Metro Rail Today): In a significant development for Jaipur's transportation infrastructure, Afcons Infrastructure has officially commenced underground construction work on Package UG-03 of Jaipur Metro's eagerly anticipated Phase 1C. This phase, spanning 3.41 kilometers, will extend the existing Pink Line of Jaipur Metro, which currently runs from Mansarovar to Badi Chaupar, further eastward to Transport Nagar.
A major portion of this extension, approximately 2.65 kilometers, will be constructed underground through twin tunnels traversing the old city. Additionally, the phase will feature the construction of one new station at Ramganj Chaupar. The remaining 0.76 kilometers will be built elevated, with one new station planned at Transport Nagar.
Over the weekend, Afcons Infrastructure initiated the groundwork by deploying a trench cutter machine near Galta Gate. This marks the beginning of grabbing and trenching activities aimed at constructing the diaphragm wall (D-wall) for the tunnel boring machine (TBM) launch shaft. Situated on NH-248, this site will encompass a cut and cover tunnel, a TBM Launch Shaft, and a ramp leading to the elevated Transport Nagar Station.
The contract for Phase 1C, valued at Rs. 630.45 crore, was awarded to Afcons Infrastructure by the Jaipur Metro Rail Corporation (JMRC) in September 2023. Afcons' scope of work encompasses the construction of twin tunnels, an underground station at Ramganj Chaupar, and a cut-and-cover tunnel box, along with the underground ramp from Badi Chaupar Station to its designated endpoint.
As part of the construction process, Afcons will deploy two new tunnel boring machines (TBMs). Reports suggest that one Terratec and one Herrenknecht machine from the Agra Metro project will be redeployed for this purpose. TBMs S115 and S-718C are likely to be utilized for the Jaipur Metro Rail Project.
While the commencement of tunneling work is anticipated no earlier than the third quarter of 2025, the completion of this underground section for commercial operations is not expected before 2028.
The commencement of construction on Package UG-03 of the Jaipur Metro Rail project heralds a new chapter in Jaipur's metro expansion journey, promising enhanced connectivity and mobility for residents and commuters alike.