RVNL begins construction work on Package UG-03 of Chennai Metro Line 3

Chennai, India(Metro Rail Today): In a significant development for Chennai's metro infrastructure, URC Construction Pvt. Ltd. (URCC) has officially initiated construction activities for Package UG-03 of Chennai Metro Line 3. The commencement of work marks a crucial step forward in the expansion and enhancement of the city's metro network, promising improved connectivity and convenience for commuters.

Under the umbrella of Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), URCC has commenced grabbing and trenching operations to construct the diaphragm wall (D-wall) for one of the line's underground crossover facilities. This facility, located south of the operational Blue Line's Thousand Lights Station, forms an integral part of the metro network's infrastructure, facilitating the seamless operation of 3-coach trains.

"RVNL team performed Pooja on 24 March, 2024 at the Thousand Lights Cross over Metro Station site, falls under the underground section of Chennai Metro Line-3. This station is a part of UG-03 Package, from KMC to Royapettah. Diaphragm wall work has also started at the site using Trench cutter," said RVNL on X.

Chennai Metro Rail Ltd. (CMRL) awarded the contract for Package UG03-RT01 to RVNL in July 2023, with a stipulated deadline of 1725 days (4.7 years). Subsequently, RVNL subcontracted the construction work to URC Construction, underscoring the latter's expertise and capability in executing such critical projects.

The scope of Package UG-03 encompasses the construction of five underground stations at key locations including KMC, Sterling Road Junction, Nangambakkam, Gemini, Thousand Lights, and Thousand Lights Crossover. Additionally, partial works at two stations, Royapettah Govt. Hospital & Chetpet Metro, are also included in the package. Notably, the new station box at KMC (Kilpauk) will serve as an interchange with the 22 km Green Line (Line-2), while the Thousand Lights station box will facilitate interchange with the 23.10 km Blue Line (Line-1), enhancing connectivity across different parts of the city.

The initiation of construction activities at Thousand Lights signifies the proactive approach adopted by CMRL and its partners in advancing the Phase 2 expansion of the Chennai Metro network. With meticulous planning and execution, stakeholders aim to ensure timely completion of the project, meeting the growing demands for efficient urban transportation infrastructure.

Furthermore, RVNL's successful bid for multiple station packages underscores its commitment to bolstering Chennai's metro infrastructure. The ongoing tunneling work by Larsen & Toubro to connect the stations further accentuates the concerted efforts towards realizing the vision of a modern and integrated metro network in Chennai.

Looking ahead, similar trenching and grabbing works are slated to commence at Thousand Lights Station, followed by Kilpauk Station, signaling the steady progress of construction activities along the metro corridor. With each milestone achieved, Chennai inches closer to achieving a robust and sustainable public transportation system, catering to the needs of its burgeoning population.

The commencement of construction work by URC Construction at Thousand Lights heralds a new phase in the evolution of Chennai's metro network. As the project progresses, it is poised to redefine urban mobility, offering commuters a reliable, efficient, and environmentally sustainable mode of transportation.