DELHI METRO

The construction of the Delhi Metro began in 1998

It was the first urban train system in the city to provide affordable and efficient public transport for its
citizens.

Delhi Metro is the world's 12th longest metro system in length.

The network has a total length of 218km serving 164 stations.

The system has a mix of underground, at-grade, and elevated stations.

The Delhi Metro has employed the ‘Balanced Cantilever Construction methodology (BCLC)’ for its
construction so that the rail traffic below the Metro corridor is not hampered.

The bridge has a total length of 250 metres and is divided into three spans.

While the middle span is of 100 metres, the other two spans on the sides are of 75 metres each.

This bridge has been built using M-60 grade concrete

130 workers were engaged in the construction of the bridge on a daily basis.

The construction of this bridge was difficult since the bridge was built on a very sharp curve with a 300
metre radius
Installation of the individual segments of the bridge on the curve was difficult as the rail traffic moving
below could not be obstructed during the construction.

The use of segmental construction in elevated viaduct was not common in India till
DMRC started metro construction in Delhi.
It takes much longer time to finish the viaduct works. Therefore, DMRC decided to go
for precast segmental construction.
The advantages of precast segmental construction are:

1. Segmental construction is a cost-effective method for a vast range of span lengths and
types of structures.
2. Structures with sharp curves and variable superelevation can be adjusted to suit the
requirements.
3. Segmental construction allows the reduction of the construction period as segments are
manufactured and assembled rapidly.
4. Segmental construction shields the environment as minimum space is required for
foundation and substructure at the site.
5. The superstructure is manufactured at a place away from busy locations. Therefore, the
placement of superstructure is completed with the system erected from piers at heights.
6. In case if the site situation demands, then it is easy to adjust last-minute changes in span
configuration.
7. It is easier to ship smaller segments by road trailers on the city roads.
8. During construction, the intervention to road traffic is considerably reduced. Segmental
construction results in aesthetically pleasing structures and good finishes.

Use of Precast U-Span Girders

The use of precast U-span girders not only sped up the construction but also improved
the aesthetics of the viaduct because of the sleek shape and uniform quality.

Precast pier caps and precast U-span girders are suitable for constructing long elevated
viaducts for the railway system.

The following points describe the key advantages of the system:

1. Integrated sound barrier system and cable support system is achieved.

2. The longitudinal profile of track could be lowered by 1.5-2 m compared to a regular
design.
3. Integration of the walkway for upkeep and passenger evacuation on each side of the
tracks.
4. Cost-effective from both structural and systemic point of view.
5. The system provides flexibility in construction along the metro line between two stations.