Arun Soil Lab bags Geotechnical Investigaton Contract for Lucknow Metro Line 2

The primary goal of this geotechnical investigation is to gather detailed information about the sub-soil conditions, which will assist in designing structures and selecting the appropriate construction methods and machinery. The data will also help ensure minimal disruption to existing infrastructure during the construction phase, safeguarding the area’s historical structures.

This contract is part of the broader Phase 1B development for Lucknow Metro, with the geotechnical survey forming a critical part of the planning process. The results will help engineers and architects develop safe and efficient construction methods.

Details of the Metro’s Route and Contracts

As per the Phase 1B Detailed Project Report (DPR), Line-2 of the Lucknow Metro will comprise both elevated and underground sections. The elevated stretch will span 4.286 km with 5 stations from Vasant Kunj to Thakurganj, while the underground section will cover 6.879 km with 7 stations between Charbagh and Niwazganj.

This contract, designated as Package LKGS-01, is the second awarded for the development of the metro's East-West corridor, following the topographical survey contract (LKTS-01) given to Epitome Geotechnical Services.

Bidding Process and Financial Details

In August 2024, UPMRC invited bids for the geotechnical investigation, with an estimated cost of Rs. 77.21 lakh and a 90-day deadline for completion. After the technical evaluation in October 2024, five firms were shortlisted, with financial bids opening on Wednesday. Arun Soil Lab Pvt. Ltd. submitted the lowest bid at Rs. 58.76 lakh.

The bids were as follows:

• Arun Soil Lab Pvt. Ltd. – ₹58.76 Lakh
• Techpro Engineers Pvt. Ltd. – ₹65.04 Lakh
• S & R Geotechniques Pvt. Ltd. – ₹74.80 Lakh
• CEG Test House – ₹74.80 Lakh
• Soiltech India Pvt. Ltd. – ₹91.06 Lakh

Interestingly, S & R Geotechniques and CEG Test House submitted identical bids, both valuing ₹74,80,179.72.

Future of the Project

The geotechnical investigation is one of several preparatory steps required before construction can begin. Phase 1B of the Lucknow Metro was approved for construction by the Uttar Pradesh government in January 2024, with an estimated cost of Rs. 5801.05 crore. However, the project is still awaiting approval from the Central Government's Public Investment Board (PIB), a crucial step before construction can move forward.

Given the scale of the project and the need for thorough planning, construction of the East-West Line is expected to commence no earlier than Q2 2026. Once complete, this expansion will significantly improve connectivity across Lucknow, reducing traffic congestion and offering a modern, efficient public transport option for residents.

Stay tuned for further updates on the Lucknow Metro Phase 1B as the project progresses toward its ambitious completion.