RVNL wins ₹185 crore civil contract for Nagpur Metro Phase 2 Project

Nagpur, India (Metro Rail Today): In a significant development for the expansion of Nagpur's urban transport infrastructure, Rail Vikas Nigam Ltd. (RVNL) has emerged as the lowest bidder for the crucial civil package C-08 of the Nagpur Metro Phase 2 project. The announcement, made via a filing with the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) on Friday, marks a major milestone in the ongoing efforts to enhance connectivity in the city. This contract, awarded by the Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MAHA-METRO), involves the construction of six elevated metro stations along Reach 2B of the Orange Line’s northern extension. These stations will be located at Cantonment, Kamptee Police Station, Kamptee Municipal Council, Dragon Palace, Golf Club, and Kanhan River Metro Station.

RVNL's winning bid for this substantial project stands at an impressive ₹187.34 crore (₹187,34,07,260), underscoring the company’s competitive edge in securing major infrastructure contracts. This contract comes with a 900-day deadline, translating to roughly 2.5 years for completion. The timeline set by MAHA-METRO indicates a clear commitment to accelerating the development of the metro network to meet the growing transportation needs of Nagpur.

The bid process saw participation from only two contenders: RVNL and a joint venture between YFC Projects and BBG Infrastructure. The technical bids for this contract were opened in March 2024, revealing the limited but competitive field. While RVNL's bid emerged as the lowest, details regarding the bid value from the YFC – BBG JV have not been disclosed. Interested parties with information on the competing bid have been invited to share these details for comprehensive documentation.

The detailed design for the six metro stations under this package has been entrusted to LKT Engineering Consultants, appointed as the Detailed Design Consultants (DDC) by MAHA-METRO in August 2023. This strategic move ensures that the design and construction phases are underpinned by expert planning and precision.

Earlier in the week, MAHA-METRO received five bids for the construction of a 5.9 km long viaduct that will connect these stations. Notable bidders include Tata Projects and ITD Cementation, reflecting strong interest from leading construction firms in contributing to this high-profile project.

This latest contract win represents RVNL’s third success in the Nagpur Metro Phase 2 project. Before this, the company secured Package C-01 (Reach 1A) and Package C-05 (Reach 1A & 2A), further solidifying its position as a key player in the metro’s expansion. RVNL’s consistent performance in winning these packages highlights its robust capabilities and strategic execution in large-scale infrastructure projects.

It is anticipated that RVNL will subcontract parts of the construction work, a common practice seen in other metro projects. This approach allows RVNL to leverage specialized expertise from civil construction companies, ensuring efficient and high-quality project delivery. The subcontracting partners for this project are yet to be announced, and industry watchers are keen to see which firms will be brought on board to execute these critical construction tasks.

The Nagpur Metro Phase 2 project is pivotal in transforming the city’s public transport landscape. With a total length of 43.8 km, this phase aims to extend the reach of the metro network, providing enhanced connectivity to underserved areas and reducing traffic congestion. The northern extension of the Orange Line, where Package C-08 is situated, is particularly important as it connects key residential and commercial zones.

The strategic implementation of metro stations at locations like Cantonment, Kamptee Police Station, and Dragon Palace is expected to spur economic activity and improve accessibility. By facilitating faster and more reliable transit options, the metro project is set to contribute significantly to the city’s growth and development.

While the award of the contract marks a significant step forward, the execution phase will come with its set of challenges. Meeting the 900-day deadline requires meticulous planning, seamless coordination among various stakeholders, and adherence to stringent quality standards. RVNL’s previous experience and successful track record in similar projects provide confidence in their ability to navigate these challenges effectively.

The award of the C-08 package to RVNL for the Nagpur Metro Phase 2 project is a testament to the company’s expertise and competitive prowess in the infrastructure sector. As the project moves into the construction phase, it promises to bring substantial improvements to Nagpur’s public transport system, fostering greater connectivity and economic development. The successful completion of this project will not only enhance the urban mobility landscape but also set a benchmark for future metro rail projects across India.