Shellinfo Global awarded AFC System Contract for Chennai Metro Phase 2

Chennai, India (Metro Rail Today): In a significant stride towards advancing the Chennai Metro Phase 2 project, Shellinfo Global Digital Technologies Private Limited has clinched a critical contract worth Rs. 93.17 crore. The contract, designated AFA03B, pertains to the supply of station-level equipment for the Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) system of the 26.09 km Chennai Metro Line-4.

Chennai Metro Line-4 is a pivotal component of the expansive 116.1 km Chennai Metro Phase 2. The line, connecting Light House to Poonamallee Bypass, encompasses a total of 30 stations, both elevated and underground. Shellinfo's engagement with this project extends beyond AFA03B, with a previous contract (Package AFA03A) awarded in November 2023 for the AFC's back-office integration work, amounting to Rs. 42.57 crore.

The tendering process for the AFC's equipment was initiated by Chennai Metro Rail Ltd (CMRL) in February 2023, with an undisclosed estimate and a deadline extending over 1870 days (5.12 years). After technical bids were opened in August, five bidders emerged in the fray. Notably, RAF-CS India – Revenue Collection System France JV faced disqualification due to non-compliance with tender conditions.

Financial bids from the remaining four technically qualified bidders were unveiled in October 2023, revealing Shellinfo as the lowest bidder with a bid of Rs. 93.17 crore. Aurionpro Solutions, MSI Global, and Nippon Signal were the other contenders, with the latter submitting a notably high bid of Rs. 302.92 crore.

The scope of Shellinfo's contract (CMRL/PHASE-II/SYS/C4 – AFA03b/2023) encompasses the design, manufacture, supply, installation, testing, commissioning, and maintenance of station-level equipment for the Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) System. This pivotal system is integral to the seamless functioning of Chennai Metro Line-4.

Shellinfo's success in securing this contract solidifies its position in the Indian metro infrastructure landscape. This marks the company's third contract in the country, following engagements in Hyderabad Metro's Phase 1 project. The financial strength and technical expertise demonstrated by Shellinfo position it as a reliable partner in the implementation of critical metro systems.

With the awarding of the AFC equipment contract to Shellinfo, all system contracts for Chennai Metro Line-4 have been successfully allocated. Notable contracts include rolling stock (awarded to Alstom), electrification (awarded to Siemens), and telecom (awarded to Larsen & Toubro). This comprehensive approach ensures the seamless integration and efficiency of the entire metro line.

Shellinfo's triumph in securing the AFC equipment contract reinforces its role as a key contributor to the growth and development of Chennai's metro network. As Line-4 progresses towards completion, this milestone underscores the importance of strategic partnerships in delivering world-class metro systems.