Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has successfully installed the country’s longest precast U-girder—a 33.33-meter span—at Ramapuram as part of Phase 2, Corridor 5 (Madhavaram-Sholinganallur).
This achievement surpasses the previous national record of 31 meters held by Bengaluru Metro, underscoring CMRL’s commitment to engineering excellence and innovation . The installation was carried out in collaboration with General Consultant AEON and contractor L&T, utilizing specially fabricated moulds and complex pre-tensioning techniques to ensure structural integrity. The 225-tonne U-girder was transported from the Kolapancheri casting yard to the site using multi-axle trailers, with police assistance to clear traffic along the route. The installation process was completed within five days, demonstrating remarkable efficiency and coordination .
This engineering feat is part of CMRL’s broader strategy to enhance the elevated viaducts of Phase 2 by incorporating longer U-girders. These longer spans offer several advantages, including reduced construction time, improved load handling, and quieter train operations, particularly in densely populated urban areas like Ramapuram . The use of precast U-girders is a testament to CMRL’s adoption of modern construction methodologies. Unlike traditional cast-in-situ methods, precast elements can be produced off-site and installed with minimal disruption to existing traffic, facilitating 24-hour construction operations. This approach not only accelerates project timelines but also enhances safety and quality control during the construction process .
Looking ahead, CMRL plans to continue utilizing long-span U-girders in future alignments to optimize cost and execution timelines. The successful installation of the 33.33-meter U-girder at Ramapuram marks a significant step forward in the development of Chennai’s metro network, contributing to the city’s vision of sustainable and efficient urban transportation. As the Phase 2 project progresses, CMRL remains focused on delivering a modern, reliable, and environmentally friendly metro system that meets the growing demands of Chennai’s urban population. The integration of advanced engineering techniques and innovative construction practices positions Chennai Metro as a model for urban transit development in India.
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