CMRL Erects India’s First 33.33-Metre U-Girder in a Metro Rail Project

In a landmark engineering feat, Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has successfully erected the country’s first-ever 33.33-metre-long U-Girder at Ramapuram as part of Phase 2, Corridor 5 (ECV-02). This is the first such achievement in the history of Indian metro rail projects. The work was carried out in collaboration with General Consultant AEON and contractor Larsen & Toubro (L&T).

Weighing 225 metric tonnes, this pioneering girder represents a significant engineering milestone and highlights the technical prowess, innovation, and execution capabilities of the project team. The erection was completed over three spans, with two girders placed on each span — a total of six U-Girders measuring 33.33 metres each — showcasing exceptional agility and design excellence.

The girder was transported using specialised 6+6 axle multi-axle trailers powered by a Volvo FH 520 HP puller. The casting process included intricate reinforcement, pre-tensioning, and compliance with the highest standards of quality control. Transporting the massive girder from the casting yard to the erection site involved meticulous logistical planning and seamless coordination.

Thiru T. Archunan, Director (Projects), CMRL, along with AGM-EC Thiru C. Murali Manoharan, DGM-Civil Thiru A. Ramakrishnan, Tmt K. Bhavani – EVP & IC Head/Heavy Civil Infra, Thiru K. Krishna Prabhakar – Project In-Charge/L&T, and senior officials from CMRL and L&T were present during the occasion.