CMRL erects India’s first 33-metre U-girder in Phase 2 works
Unlike the conventional use of steel girders for longer spans at traffic junctions, CMRL adopted a precast U-girder approach — making it the longest of its kind among Indian Metro systems
CMRL erects India’s first 33-metre U-girder
CHENNAI: The Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL), in collaboration with the general consultant AEON and contractor L&T, has successfully erected the country’s longest U-Girder measuring 33.33 metres at Ramapuram on Monday.
This engineering feat, part of phase II, corridor 5 (ECV-02), marks a first in Indian Metro history. Weighing 225 metric tonnes, the girder exemplifies innovation and engineering excellence.
Unlike the conventional use of steel girders for longer spans at traffic junctions, CMRL adopted a precast U-girder approach — making it the longest of its kind among Indian Metro systems. Positioned in front of L&T’s headquarters, the girder is not only functionally superior but also aesthetically striking.
“The project faced major challenges in casting, transportation, and launching. Using special moulds, each of the six girders was precast with intricate reinforcement and pre-tensioning. They were transported from the casting yard using specialised 6+6 axle multi-axle trailers powered by Volvo FH 520 HP pullers,” a CMRL release said.
Executed across three spans with two girders per span, the successful launch highlights the agility and design capabilities of CMRL and its partners. T Archunan, Director (Projects), CMRL, along with senior officials from CMRL and L&T witnessed the successful erection.
