The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) successfully completed a significant tunnelling milestone on the Tughlakabad-Aerocity corridor of Phase 4. A Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) broke through at Chhatarpur Mandir Station after creating an 860-metre-long tunnel, marking progress in the construction of underground sections on the Golden Line.
Milestone Achievement:
DMRC reached a significant construction milestone for Phase 4 of the Delhi Metro, completing an underground tunnel between Chhatarpur and Chhatarpur Mandir Stations on the Tughlakabad-Aerocity corridor. The breakthrough was attended by Dr. Vikas Kumar, MD, DMRC, and other senior officials.
Details of Tunnel Construction:
The TBM achieved an 860-metre tunnel breakthrough at Chhatarpur Mandir Station, marking the completion of one of the two parallel tunnels for up and down movement. The first tunnel breakthrough was accomplished on August 21, 2024.
Tunnel Specifications:
- Constructed at an average depth of 12 metres.
- Installed with 613 rings with an inner diameter of 5.8 metres.
- TBM length: 97 metres.
Construction Challenges:
Challenges included rerouting a 66 KV electrical HT line and tunnelling beneath the active Yellow Line viaduct without disrupting operations. Advanced EPBM technology was used, ensuring safety and precision.
Safety and Precautionary Measures:
Use of sensitive instruments to monitor ground movements and ensure no settlements during construction. The tunnel was built using precast concrete rings cast at a mechanised yard in Mundka.
Phase-4 Underground Construction Overview:
Phase 4 includes a total of 40.109 km of underground lines, with 19.343 km on the Aerocity-Tughlakabad corridor. TBMs play a pivotal role in tunnelling work, particularly in urban, congested environments.
Conclusion:
The TBM breakthrough at Chhatarpur Mandir Station demonstrates DMRC’s advancement in tunnelling technology and safety in urban infrastructure projects. This milestone further enhances the progress of Phase 4, bringing DMRC closer to completing its vision of seamless connectivity across Delhi through efficient underground metro corridors.
Source: DMRC – Press Release | Images Credit: DMRC
