The third-highest section of the under-construction Magenta Line extension has reached completion. The steel span, measuring 50 metres in length and 22.54 metres in height, was installed at Pitampura station, a crucial junction in the ongoing Phase 4 metro expansion.
This milestone not only marks a critical step forward for the Magenta Line extension but also demonstrates DMRC’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge construction methods in complex urban settings. The new steel span is a critical component of the elevated section at Pitampura, which will provide seamless connectivity between the Red Line and the newly constructed Magenta Line. Weighing approximately 340 metric tonnes, the span has been designed in a parabolic shape to offer both structural strength and aesthetic appeal. The installation of this steel span was a complex operation, taking place over three separate nights to avoid disrupting road traffic and metro services, particularly along the Red Line.
The installation was no easy feat, given the spatial constraints of the location and the busy urban environment. Pitampura’s narrow roadways and the proximity to residential buildings presented unique logistical challenges for the DMRC team. The assembly of the heavy steel span, particularly with limited crane space, required a highly strategic approach. To mitigate potential disruptions, the span was divided into three sections, allowing for a more controlled and precise installation process. This careful planning allowed DMRC to install the span without halting road traffic or disturbing the operations of the nearby Red Line. Given the delicate nature of working above an operational metro line, the installation process was carried out during the night, minimising the risk of accidents. Specialised cribs were constructed on either end of the elevated track to support the span, ensuring that it could be positioned 1.6 metres above the existing Red Line’s overhead equipment.
The installation process involved multiple stages, with the middle portion of the steel span, measuring around 12 metres and weighing 70 metric tonnes, being placed first. This was directly above the Red Line track, posing a unique challenge. Once the middle section was securely in place, the two 19-metre sections, each weighing around 127 metric tonnes, were installed on either side. The final stages saw these components joined together using more than 20,000 bolts, a testament to the precision engineering required for the project.
The installation took place in stages, with work spanning nearly three-and-a-half months. This extended timeline was due to the need for meticulous planning, the construction of the cribs, and the careful handling of the heavy steel components. The entire process involved a significant amount of coordination between various teams, ensuring that safety standards were met and that disruptions to local traffic and metro services were kept to a minimum.
Once completed, the Pitampura station will serve as a key interchange station, connecting the existing Red Line with the newly constructed Magenta Line. This integration will greatly improve commuter access, reducing travel time and offering an environmentally-friendly alternative to road transport. As part of the plan, a 180-metre foot overbridge will also be constructed to facilitate smooth passenger transfers between the two lines. This bridge will provide easy access from the Red Line station platform to the concourse of the new Magenta Line station, further improving the overall commuter experience. The Magenta Line extension, which spans approximately 29 kilometres, will feature 23 new stations, including major hubs like Janakpuri West and RK Ashram. This extension is expected to provide critical infrastructure support for the rapidly growing city, reducing traffic congestion, cutting down on carbon emissions, and promoting sustainable urban mobility. DMRC is targeting completion of the entire corridor by mid-2026, bringing the benefits of efficient public transport to millions of commuters.
As part of its long-term strategy, DMRC is committed to creating a more sustainable and equitable urban transport system. The new Magenta Line extension is in line with the city’s vision of reducing carbon footprints and promoting eco-friendly commuting options. The metro expansion plays a crucial role in the city’s broader efforts to combat air pollution and promote the use of green transportation methods. Additionally, the integrated design of the Magenta Line will ensure that urban mobility becomes more inclusive and accessible. The emphasis on safety, reliability, and accessibility at all stages of the construction process highlights DMRC’s commitment to delivering a high-quality public transport experience for everyone, regardless of their socio-economic background. The completion of the Pitampura steel span installation represents a major achievement in the ongoing development of Delhi’s metro network. As more sections of the Magenta Line extension are completed, the city is set to experience a transformation in urban mobility. With its focus on safety, sustainability, and innovation, the project will not only provide significant economic and environmental benefits but also create a model for future urban transport projects across India.
As DMRC moves closer to completing the Phase 4 expansion, it will continue to set benchmarks for infrastructure development that prioritise safety, sustainability, and equity. This will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of transportation in Delhi, ensuring that the city remains a vibrant, sustainable, and accessible metropolis for generations to come.
Delhi Metro Magenta Line Achieves Third-Highest Milestone
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