Five Bidders compete for Electrification Contract of Nagpur Metro Phase 2

Nagpur, India (Metro Rail Today): In a significant step towards advancing the Nagpur Metro Phase 2 project, five firms have submitted bids for the 25 kV overhead equipment (OHE) electrification contract, designated as Package TR-02. The Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. (Maha-Metro) opened the technical bids on Wednesday, marking a crucial milestone in the expansion of Nagpur's metro network.

Package TR-02 involves the design, supply, installation, testing, and commissioning of 25kV flexible OHE and sectioning posts throughout all at-grade and elevated sections of the 43.8 km Phase 2 project. This comprehensive electrification effort will be funded through a proposed loan from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the European Investment Bank (EIB), underscoring the international support and investment in India's metro infrastructure.

The bidding process for this package was initiated in December 2023, with Maha-Metro setting a project completion deadline of 180 weeks or approximately 3.45 years. The exact budget for this contract remains undisclosed.

The Bidders

The five firms that have entered the fray for Package TR-02 include some of the most prominent names in the industry:

• Kalpataru Projects International Ltd. (KPIL)
• KEC International Ltd.
• Konkan Railway Corporation Ltd.
• Siemens Ltd. – Rail Vikas Nigam Ltd. (RVNL) JV
• Texmaco Rail and Engineering Ltd.

These firms bring a wealth of experience and expertise, with some participating as part of joint ventures to leverage combined strengths and capabilities.

The scope of Package TR-02 encompasses the complete electrification of Phase 2's at-grade and elevated sections with 25kV flexible OHE and sectioning posts. This is a critical component of the project, ensuring the efficient and reliable operation of the metro services across the newly expanded routes.

In addition to TR-02, a separate electrification contract under Package TR-03 will focus on the commissioning of the 33 kV cable network, auxiliary substation (ASS), receiving substation (RSS), and supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system. The technical bids for Package TR-03 were initially scheduled to open on the same day but have been postponed to July 11.

The technical bids for Package TR-02 are now under evaluation, a process expected to take several months. During this period, Maha-Metro will meticulously assess each bid to ensure compliance with the project's stringent technical requirements. Once the technical evaluation is completed, the financial bids of the technically qualified bidders will be opened to identify the lowest bidder, who will most likely be awarded the contract.

The TR-02 contract is the third systems-related contract for Phase 2 where technical bids have been opened. Previous contracts include the electrical and mechanical works package E&M-02 and the track package T-01, both of which have already opened their financial bids. This progression indicates steady progress in the implementation of Phase 2, as Maha-Metro continues to lay the groundwork for a fully operational metro network.

The successful completion of Package TR-02 will mark a significant advancement for the Nagpur Metro, enhancing its capacity and efficiency. As Phase 2 extends the reach of the metro network, the new electrification infrastructure will support the operation of more trains, reduce travel times, and improve the overall commuting experience for residents and visitors alike.

The expansion of the Nagpur Metro is poised to bring substantial benefits, including reduced traffic congestion, lower pollution levels, and enhanced connectivity across the city. The international funding support from ADB and EIB highlights the project's importance and the confidence of global institutions in India's urban transport initiatives.

As the project progresses, stakeholders and commuters eagerly await the completion of the technical and financial evaluations, which will pave the way for the commencement of construction and the eventual realization of a more connected and efficient Nagpur.