Kalpataru Projects wins ₹999 crore Civil Contract for Nagpur Metro Phase 2

Nagpur, India (Metro Rail Today): In a significant development for the Nagpur Metro Phase 2 project, Kalpataru Projects International Ltd. (KPIL) has emerged as the lowest bidder for Package C-11, marking a key milestone in the expansion of Nagpur’s metro network. The Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. (MMRCL), also known as MahaMetro, has awarded this crucial contract to KPIL, reinforcing the company's prominent role in India's urban transportation infrastructure.

Contract Details

The Package C-11 contract involves the construction of three distinct viaduct sections, critical to the advancement of the Nagpur Metro Phase 2 project. This package covers the following areas:

• Reach 2B: A 5.9 km viaduct for the northern extension of the Orange Line, stretching between Cantonment and Kanhan.
• Reach 3A: A 6.4 km viaduct for the western extension of the Aqua Line, from Lokmanya Nagar to Hingna.
• Reach 4A: A 5.3 km viaduct for the eastern extension of the Aqua Line, from Prajapati Square to Transport Nagar.

Originally, the construction of these viaducts was planned across three separate packages—C-07, C-03, and C-04. However, in February 2024, these individual packages were consolidated into the single, comprehensive Package C-11. This consolidation reflects MahaMetro’s strategic approach to streamline the project and enhance efficiency.

Tender Process and Financials

The bidding process for Package C-11 was initiated in March 2024, with an estimated value of Rs. 1010 crore and a construction timeline of 1080 days (approximately 3 years). By May, technical bids were reviewed, and five bidders were evaluated. Notably, Rail Vikas Nigam Ltd. (RVNL) was disqualified as their bid did not meet the tender’s requirements.

Bid Comparison

The financial bids were as follows:

• Kalpataru Projects International Ltd. (KPIL): ₹999.00 crore (L1)
• GR Infraprojects Ltd. (GRIL): ₹1,031.67 crore (L2)
• ITD Cementation India Ltd.: ₹1,075.65 crore (L3)
• Tata Projects Limited: ₹1,183.93 crore (L4)

KPIL’s bid of ₹999 crore was notably ₹11 crore (1.09%) lower than the MMRCL's estimate, positioning KPIL as the lowest bidder. This bid is expected to be finalized soon, with the contract likely to be awarded within the next few weeks.

In addition to the viaduct construction, the development of metro stations along these routes is also progressing:

• Reach 2B: The contract for constructing 6 metro stations was awarded to RVNL in July 2024 under Package C-08.
• Reaches 3A and 4A: The bid process for the construction of 10 metro stations is ongoing. MMRCL received two bids for this package (C-06) in March and is currently evaluating the technical proposals.

The award of Package C-11 to Kalpataru Projects International Ltd. is a strategic move for the Nagpur Metro Phase 2 expansion. This project is crucial for enhancing connectivity and supporting the growing transportation needs of Nagpur’s residents.

By consolidating the viaduct construction into a single package, MahaMetro aims to streamline the construction process, reduce logistical complexities, and potentially shorten the project timeline. This approach also facilitates better coordination and oversight throughout the construction phase.

The completion of these viaducts and stations will significantly improve the efficiency and reach of Nagpur’s metro network. The expansion is expected to boost urban mobility, reduce traffic congestion, and support the city’s infrastructure development goals.