Delhi Metro hires foreign consultants to check Phase 3 design proofs

The Delhi Metro has for the first time roped in two foreign consultants to check all design proofs of civil constructions being carried out as part of the ongoing Phase 3 expansion. This has been done to ensure there are no shortcomings in the design of the Metro corridors.

The Delhi Metro has for the first time roped in two foreign consultants to check all design proofs of civil constructions being carried out as part of the ongoing Phase 3 expansion. This has been done to ensure there are no shortcomings in the design of the Metro corridors.

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The two consultants, Systra, a French company, and Ayesa, a Spanish firm, will check the technical aspects of the design proofs for the Delhi Metro’s construction works under Phase 3, especially the two longest lines (Line 7 and 8) that are being built on Ring Road and Outer Ring Road.

Line 7 will follow the route of Delhi’s inner Ring Road from Mukundpur to Shiv Vihar, tracing an almost complete circle around the eastern, southern and western edges of the city on a mostly elevated alignment. Line 8 will pass through Outer Ring Road and connect Janakpuri with Kalindi Kunj up to Botanical Garden in Noida Sector 32.

According to Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) officials, construction of the two lines is extremely challenging as they will pass through heavy traffic zones, traffic signals, railway crossings and, at many points, will have sharp curves.

“The design proof checks by the agencies will ensure foolproof designing of the civil structure,” said Jitendra Tyagi, director, works. He said both agencies would check the design proofs of special spans (extra-long slabs placed on the piers at traffic intersections or railway crossings) and sub-structures submitted by contractors.

A senior DMRC official said construction could only begin after go-ahead from the agencies. “A team from IIT Delhi has also been engaged to proof-read the designs of special spans and structures,” he added.