CHENNAI: The Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has been awarded ‘gold rating’ from the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) for its Wimco Nagar Depot to meet aspects of ‘green factory building’, highlighting eco-friendly design, construction, and operational processes.
“CMRL is more focused on reducing its carbon footprint, building upon the highest-level platinum ratings already awarded to its 40 Metro stations in phase 1 and extension,” read the CMRL press note.
In the case of Wimco Nagar depot, an elevated facility with a terminal station on the blue line, incorporates several key green features such as advanced water conservation, with an automatic coach washing plant that recycles 80% of its water, significantly reducing freshwater consumption, and wastewater reutilisation, which is an effluent treatment plant (ETP) that treats and reclaims water for use in irrigation and flushing. Lastly, the depot is a sustainable site management featuring 7.5-metre-wide internal roads with integrated storm water drains (SWD), ensuring efficient water management across the compound.
The depot, constructed with a built-up area of 33,918 sq/m features 16 stabling lines, a training facility, a gym, and other modern amenities.
Meanwhile, the IGBC is a body that awards green building certification. It provides rating systems for various project types to encourage the adoption of sustainable practices and reduce the environmental impact of buildings and infrastructure.