Bengaluru, India (Metro Rail Today): In a significant step forward for the Bengaluru Suburban Rail Project (BSRP), four firms—one operating as a consortium—have submitted bids for the track laying contract of Corridor 2. This 23.86 km section connects Baiyyappanahalli to Chikkabanavara, part of the larger 149.35 km suburban rail initiative aimed at enhancing connectivity in the region.
The contract for the Mallige Line (Line-2) entails the design, supply, and installation of ballastless tracks and associated elements, including fastening systems and turnouts, on the elevated viaduct currently being constructed by Larsen & Toubro (L&T). Additionally, the successful bidder will be responsible for installing ballasted tracks at the Soladevanahalli Depot located in north-west Bengaluru.
Karnataka's Rail Infrastructure Development Company (K-RIDE) issued tenders for this contract in August 2024, with an estimated budget of ₹102.24 crore and a two-year completion timeline.
The four bidders that submitted their technical proposals are:
All submitted bids are now undergoing a technical evaluation, a process that could take several months. Following this evaluation, the financial proposals of the technically qualified bidders will be opened to determine the lowest bidder, who will likely be awarded the contract.
L&T previously secured the contract for the construction of the Line-2 viaduct in September 2022, marking the first civil package of the entire BSRP. Detailed information regarding all project packages and their current statuses can be accessed on K-RIDE’s official website.
In a related update, sources within the tunneling industry have indicated that ITD Cementation is scheduled to achieve a significant milestone tomorrow afternoon. They will record the final tunnel breakthrough of 73.92 km for the Bangalore Metro Phase 2 project at Nagawara’s South Shaft. This breakthrough, executed by Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) Bhadra (S-840B), marks the 26th and final completion for the 21.38 km Pink Line, which connects Kalena Agrahara to Nagawara.
The progress of the Bengaluru Suburban Rail Project, particularly with the bidding for Corridor 2, reflects the city's commitment to enhancing its public transport infrastructure. As the evaluation process unfolds, the outcome will pave the way for further advancements in the region's connectivity and transit options.