Gulermak–Sam India JV Cast Final Tunnel Ring Segment for Kanpur Metro Rail Project

Kanpur, India (Metro Rail Today): In a significant achievement for the Kanpur Metro Phase 1 project, the Gulermak – Sam India Builtwell Joint Venture (JV) marked a milestone last week by casting the final tunnel ring segment for Package KNPCC-05, the underground section spanning 3.619 km. This accomplishment adds another layer of progress to the 32.4 km Kanpur Metro Phase 1, reflecting the dedication and expertise of the construction team.

The casting yard, strategically located in Kanpur's Khyora neighborhood, has been a hive of activity. Approximately 3500 segments have been meticulously cast, forming the foundation for twin tunnels that will stretch between MacRobertganj (Permat) Ramp and Nayaganj Station on Kanpur Metro's Line-1, covering a distance of 23.785 km from IIT Kanpur to Naubasta.

Initiated in October 2021, KNPCC-05 is the inaugural underground section of Kanpur Metro's Phase 1. Comprising four twin tunnels (totaling eight), substantial progress has been made with six tunnels already constructed between Chunniganj and Nayaganj. Two cutting-edge Terratec EPB tunnel boring machines, namely TBM Tatya (S92) and TBM Nana (S93), have played a pivotal role in this advancement.

Each reinforced concrete ring, integral to the tunnel structure, boasts dimensions of 1,400mm width by 275mm thickness. Comprising five segments plus one smaller 'key' segment, these rings contribute to the structural integrity of the tunnels.

The Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC) entrusted Gulermak – Sam India with the construction contract for Package KNPCC-05 in March 2021, setting a 36-month deadline. Apart from tunnel construction, the JV is tasked with building four stations at strategic locations - Chunniganj, Naveen Market, Bada Chauraha, and Nayaganj, each measuring 215m in length.

The collaboration between TBMs Nana (up-line) and Tatya (down-line) has resulted in the completion of significant tunnel sections. Notable breakthroughs include the stretch from Bada Chauraha to Nayaganj (1025m) in December 2022 and January 2023, Chunniganj to Naveen Market (728m) in June and July 2023, and Naveen Market to Bada Chauraha (510m) in September and October 2023.

Presently, both machines are embarking on their fourth and final drives from the Cut & Cover Shaft in MacRobertganj (Permat) to Chunniganj Station, covering a distance of approximately 414 meters. Anticipated completion rates suggest that Nana will conclude its operations first, followed by Tatya, expected to finish by the end of February.

This noteworthy progress signifies a crucial step forward in the timely execution of the Kanpur Metro Phase 1 project, enhancing urban mobility and connectivity in the region.