Chennai Metro Rail Limited’s (CMRL) ambitious Phase II project has encountered a brief pause in its tunnelling operations. Four Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs), aptly named Flamingo, Eagle, Pelican, and Peacock, are undergoing critical maintenance referred to as cutterhead intervention. This routine but essential process ensures the longevity of the machines, replacing worn-out components like disc cutters that endure significant wear while tunnelling through challenging geological conditions.
The ₹63,246-crore Phase II project stretches along Corridor 4, connecting Light House to Poonamallee via prominent localities such as Mylapore and T. Nagar. To balance cost and land availability, the corridor is designed with a mix of elevated and underground sections. Tunnelling between Light House and Kutchery Road and from Panagal Park to Kodambakkam has faced additional challenges, including abrasive sand and hard rock. Cutterhead interventions, necessary for such terrains, can take 3-10 days depending on the extent of wear. Earlier this month, gas leaks in the Light House stretch caused brief halts, showcasing the complexity of this massive infrastructure project.
Beyond logistical challenges, the temporary halts underscore the importance of safety and precision in urban development. Frequent maintenance prevents equipment failure, ensuring a smooth construction timeline and minimising risks. Such interventions reflect the meticulous planning required to execute large-scale infrastructure projects in dense urban environments.
From a sustainability standpoint, ensuring efficient tunnelling operations helps reduce energy consumption and resource wastage. The project’s underground sections aim to improve Chennai’s urban mobility, offering a greener and more sustainable alternative to road traffic congestion. Despite temporary pauses, the focus on long-term efficiency aligns with broader sustainability goals, promising enhanced urban infrastructure for the city’s growing population.
