RVNL Builds Indian Railways’ 1st 3D-Printed Building in Andhra Pradesh

In a pioneering feat, Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), a Navratna PSU under the Ministry of Railways, has constructed Indian Railways’ first-ever 3D-printed building, a Gangman Hut, at Parvatipuram Railway Station (PVP) in Manyam district, Andhra Pradesh.

Part of the Vizianagaram–Titlagarh third line project, this innovation supports enhanced freight and passenger capacity amid rising industrial growth in the region. Built under the Waltair Division of East Coast Railway Zone, the 1,076 sq ft structure was completed in just 25 days, showcasing a major leap in railway infrastructure technology.

Unlike traditional construction, the hut was fabricated using a 3D concrete printer that layers Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC) and Lightweight Concrete, improving durability, efficiency, and build speed. The facility provides resting space, tool storage, and a work base for track maintenance crews (gangmen).

Key Features and Innovations:

Faster & Cleaner Construction: Significantly reduces construction time and material waste, making it more environmentally friendly.

Advanced Design Capabilities: Incorporates complex geometries, textured elevations, and wavy wall patterns that are difficult to achieve with traditional methods.

Virtual Tour Integration: A virtual 3D walkthrough was developed to allow stakeholders to visualize the building before physical construction began.

Realistic Lighting Design: Both natural and artificial lighting were strategically integrated to enhance functionality and ambiance.

This project will drastically change the way an infrastructure is constructed in the nation by creating new opportunities for the widespread use of 3D printing in future station buildings, shelters, offices, and housing across Indian Railways and beyond.

Chairman & Managing Director of RVNL, Shri Pradeep Gaur said, “RVNL has successfully done demonstration of this modern construction technology. This initiative could pave the way for broader adoption of 3D printing in low-cost, quick-build infrastructure projects across India. It represents a major step in modernizing construction practices and highlights RVNL’s commitment to deploying cutting-edge technologies for developing modern infrastructure. Such technologies will, therefore, be key contributors to fast-track project execution ensuring sustainability and cost-effectiveness, as we develop a future-ready infrastructure."