HCC-KEC JV Completes Casting Works for Line-4 of Chennai Metro Phase 2

Chennai, India (Metro Rail Today): In a significant milestone for the Chennai Metro Phase 2 project, Hindustan Construction Company (HCC) and KEC International (KEC) have completed the casting of all precast elements for Package C4-ECV02 on Line-4. This major development marks a crucial step forward in the expansion of Chennai's metro network, promising enhanced connectivity and convenience for the city’s residents.

Key Milestone in Metro Expansion

The collaboration between HCC and KEC International has yielded impressive results, culminating in the successful casting of 2,885 precast elements. These elements include a variety of prestressed components such as U-girders, pier arms, portal beams, and pier caps. The construction took place at a dedicated yard in Kolappancheri, showcasing the scale and precision of this engineering feat.

Details of the Project

Package C4-ECV02 spans 7.945 kilometers and forms the western end of Line-4, which runs from Light House to Poonamallee Bypass. This package connects Poonamallee Bypass to Porur via nine elevated stations, enhancing the accessibility of key areas in Chennai. Notably, the construction work for this package commenced in May 2021, making it the first civil package of the extensive 116.1 km Chennai Metro Phase 2 project to begin.

Stations Along the Route

The nine stations included in this package are strategically located to serve a broad area, providing vital connectivity points at Chennai Bypass Crossing, Ramachandra Hospital, Iyyapanthangal Bus Depot, Katupakkam, Kumanan Chavadi, Karayan Chavadi, Mullai Thottam, Poonamallee Bus Terminus, and Poonamallee Bypass. These stations are set to significantly ease the daily commute for thousands of passengers, reducing travel time and congestion in these densely populated regions.

Construction and Contracts

The contract for Package ECV-02, valued at Rs. 1007.95 crore, was awarded to the HCC-KEC JV in May 2021. The project includes the construction of a 7.945 km viaduct, predominantly comprising U-girders, and a viaduct leading to the Poonamallee Depot. This depot will house and maintain 26 Alstom train sets, which are essential for the operation of Line-4.

Advanced Construction Stage

As the most advanced section of the Chennai Metro Phase 2 project, Package ECV-02 is poised to be the first to open. The anticipated completion and commencement of operations are expected in the latter half of 2025. This timeline underscores the efficiency and dedication of the teams involved in ensuring timely progress.

System Components and Future Outlook

All major system components for Line-4 have been secured, including rolling stock by Alstom, electrification by Siemens, and telecom systems by Larsen & Toubro. Alstom began production of Line-4’s trains in February 2024, and the first train is expected to roll out of their Sri City facility within the next 45 days. This swift pace of development is a testament to the collaborative efforts and meticulous planning involved in the project.

Impact on Chennai’s Public Transport

The completion of this phase is set to revolutionize public transport in Chennai. The new metro line will not only provide a faster, more reliable mode of transportation but will also help in decongesting the city’s roads. With the rising population and increasing number of vehicles, the metro expansion is a much-needed initiative to cater to the growing demands of urban mobility.

Community and Economic Benefits

The new metro line is expected to bring significant economic benefits by improving accessibility to various parts of the city. It will facilitate easier movement for commuters, boosting local businesses and enhancing property values along the route. Additionally, the metro will contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing the carbon footprint through a decrease in vehicular emissions.

Conclusion

The completion of casting works for Line-4’s Package C4-ECV02 by HCC-KEC marks a pivotal moment in the Chennai Metro Phase 2 project. This achievement not only signifies progress in infrastructure development but also promises a transformative impact on Chennai’s public transport system. As the project moves towards completion, residents can look forward to a more efficient, reliable, and sustainable mode of transportation, underscoring Chennai’s growth as a modern urban center.