Chennai Metro Line-4 Completes Final U-Girder Installation
Chennai Metro Line-4 has marked a significant achievement with the completion of its final U-girder installation, a crucial step in the development of the city’s much-anticipated metro corridor. The U-girders, which are essential components of the viaduct structure, have now been fully installed, bringing the project one step closer to completion.The final U-girder was launched on Package C4-ECV-02, which spans the 7.945-kilometre stretch connecting the Poonamallee Bypass to Porur, encompassing nine stations along the way. This milestone is a significant part of the ongoing efforts by Hindustan Construction Company (HCC) and KEC International, working in a joint venture (HCC-KEC JV), to bring the infrastructure to life.
The U-girder installation took place at piers SP-04 and SP-05 near the upcoming Kumananchavadi Metro Station. With this installation, all 624 U-girders under the project have been successfully placed, completing the structure needed to support the metro’s elevated viaduct. Additionally, the project included the installation of 3,202 precast elements such as pier arms, portal beams, and pier caps, which are vital for the project’s long-term stability.The project, which started in May 2021, was awarded to HCC-KEC JV at a value of ₹1,007.95 crore, with a construction deadline of 36 months. The work also included launching two Open Web Girders (OWGs) across the Tambaram-Maduravoyal Bypass. The completion of these activities was a major accomplishment for the joint venture, which had completed the casting of all components by June 2024 at a facility in Kolappancheri.
Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has also received two Alstom train sets for Line-4, marking further progress towards operationalising the line. The track work between Mullaithottam and Poonamallee Depot has been completed, and testing, including trial runs with Alstom’s trains, is expected to begin in the coming months. CMRL has also conducted a test run involving a trolley along the tracks with its management team on board.
The completion of the final U-girder installation brings Chennai Metro Line-4 closer to serving the city’s commuters, reducing traffic congestion, and offering a sustainable public transport solution.
