In a major achievement, Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL), with AEON and L&T, has erected a 33.33 meters U-girder in Ramapuram that comes under corridor 5 of phase-2. This U-Girder weighs 225 tons, paving a way for advanced metro infrastructure engineering. This development is a step toward upgrading the metro engineering to reinforce India’s urban infrastructure development.
Introduction:
Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL), in partnership with General Consultant AEON and contractor Larsen & Toubro (L&T), has accomplished a first-of-its-kind engineering development in the Indian metro sector by erecting a 33.33-meter-long U-Girder — the longest in the country — at Ramapuram under Phase 2, Corridor 5 (ECV-02). The erection of the U-girder took place on 2nd June 2025, showcasing a major achievement in metro infrastructure.
Technical Marvel in Design and Execution:
The 33.33-meter-long, weighing 225 metric tonnes, showcases advanced engineering and high-quality design. Typically, steel girders are the first choice for traffic-heavy junctions or U-turns. However, CMRL made an impact by using longer precast U-girder rather than steel girders, accelerating infrastructure strength and aesthetics
This accomplishment works well with not using piers in congested areas, moreover it provides the aesthetic appeal with accentuating the metro infrastructure, mainly in urban areas.
Key Project Highlights:
- Girder Length: 33.33 meters
- Weight: 225 metric tonnes
- Span Execution: 3 spans with 2 U-girders per span
- Total Girders Erected: 6
- Casting Process: Includes specialized moulds, pre-tensioning, and high-level quality control
- Transportation: Executed with 6+6 axle multi-axle trailers and a Volvo FH 520 HP puller
- Location: In front of L&T HQ at Ramapuram
Precision Planning and Coordination:
The project faced several challenges, one of them is transporting them from the casting yard to the construction site. The girders were successfully implemented because of the logistical operations and expert coordination. The girder was transported to the site using specialized 6+6 axle multi-axle trailers.
Leadership and Presence:
Senior officials and project stakeholders were present during the successful erection, including-
- Shri T. Archunan – Director Projects, CMRL
- Shri C. Murali Manoharan – AGM-EC
- Shri A. Ramakrishnan – DGM-Civil
- Smt. K. Bhavani – EVP & IC Head, Heavy Civil Infra
- Shri K. Krishna Prabhakar – Project In-charge, L&T
Along with several other officials from CMRL and L&T
Their presence highlights the significance of this event in India’s infrastructure journey.
Conclusion:
The successful erection of India’s first 33.33-meter U-girder by CMRL showcases a new chapter in metro construction innovation. Integrating engineering precision, advanced design, and collaborative execution, this achievement is not just a record-setting moment—it reinforces India’s position as a growing hub for advanced urban infrastructure development.
Source: CMRL – Press Release | Images Credit: CMRL
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