Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated two major metro rail projects for Lucknow Metro Rail (LMRC) and Delhi Metro Rail (DMRC). The two projects have been constructed by a Tata Projects-led JV. While DMRC inaugurated its Rs 7.78 billion first-line extension, which is the first metro line to reach the interiors of Ghaziabad, LMRC opened its 3.68-km Hussainganj-Hazratganj underground extension.

The 9.63-km Dilshad Garden-Ghaziabad New Bus Adda elevated extension is along the first-line alignment and includes a 170-m bridge across Hindon River. The stretch includes stations such as Shahid Nagar, Raj Bagh, Rajender Nagar, Shyam Park, Mohan Nagar, Arthala, Hindon and New Bus Adda. 

Speaking on the inauguration of Delhi Metro’s new line, Rahul Shah, Chief Operating Officer (Urban Infra), Tata Projects, said, “We are proud to have executed these projects by adopting the latest technologies and constructing in accordance with world-class standards. Tata Projects has used long formworks of 25-m length for speedy construction and minimal disruption to traffic.” 

The stations have two separate small buildings on either side of the alignment, thereby allowing speedy construction through elevated viaduct; track-laying remains independent of station buildings. The length of the platforms at all stations is 185 m, and the height from the ground level is about 13.5 m. In addition, all stations have been designed with disabled-friendly features. 

LMRC’s Phase 1A (underground) extension involved tunnelling under thickly inhabited areas with heritage structures, thereby requiring rigorous instrumentation and monitoring. Construction of the tunnel below Haider Nallah was executed with a clearance of merely 970 mm. The work on the Lucknow Metro 1A line had commenced in April 2016, andwas completed before schedule. It includes stations such as Hussainganj, Sachivalaya and Hazratganj.

“The new line will provide a fillip to development, ease commuting and serve nearby communities,” said Vinayak Deshpande Managing Director, Tata Projects. “Using the latest technology, we have ensured completion before the deadline.”