Rithwik-SOMA JV bags ₹702 crore Dongri Depot Construction Contract for Mumbai Metro Line 9

Mumbai, India (Metro Rail Today): In a major development for the Mumbai Metro Line 9 project, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has awarded a Letter of Acceptance (LoA) to the joint venture of M/s Rithwik Projects Pvt. Ltd. and Soma Enterprise. This contract involves the construction of the Dongri Depot, which will be essential for the maintenance and servicing of metro cars, ensuring the efficient and reliable operation of the new metro line.

The scope of work of contract package CA-207 includes depot land development and the construction of various infrastructures. These include the development of a stabling yard, operation control center, depot control center, administrative building, maintenance and inspection buildings, auxiliary substation, roads, underground utility ducts, drainage systems, and rainwater harvesting systems. The contract also covers architectural finishing, plumbing, and pre-engineered building (PEB) works for the Dongri Depot, which will serve Mumbai Metro Line-9.

The awarded value of the contract is ₹701,94,36,822/- and the project is scheduled to be completed within 52 months.

The contractor's responsibilities encompass a range of tasks. Earthwork and excavation include filling embankments, cutting soil and rocks, and controlled blasting. When blasting is not permitted, rock breaking with hammers or chisels is used. The work also includes ensuring the correct density for each layer as specified.

Rock and soil stabilization involves stabilization work both inside and outside the depot area. This includes rock slope stabilization with rock bolts and shotcreting, as well as soil stabilization using RCC retaining walls if needed. Geotechnical reports will be prepared through trial bores to ensure stability.

Dewatering and drainage tasks will be carried out with appropriate permits, along with temporary drainage works during construction. This includes the excavation and reshaping of internal and external drainage channels.

Material provision and track preparation cover the provision and laying of blanketing material and track ballast according to the latest RDSO norms, utilizing prepared materials from excavated rock.

Environmental and safety measures include tree transplantation, installation of temporary signage during construction, and the deployment of consultants for controlled blasting to ensure safety and minimize environmental impact.

The awarding of the Dongri Depot construction contract to the Rithwik-SOMA JV represents a significant advancement for the Mumbai Metro Line-9 project. This facility will play a crucial role in maintaining and servicing metro cars, contributing to the overall efficiency and reliability of the metro line, and enhancing public transportation in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.