Kochi (Metro Rail News): Kochi Metro Rail Limited( KMRL ) on Monday started the construction works of the 1.16 KM Metro stretch from SN Junction to Thrippunithura beginning with pile load test.
“One major challenge KMRL is facing in the stretch is the presence of existing Railway Overbridge after SN Junction which is falling on a sharp curve having a 152-metre radius. To meet the challenge KMRL is planning to construct a 60-metre special span” its Managing Director Mr. Alkesh Kumar Sharma said.
“KMRL is adopting a unique steel open web girder system. The steel superstructure will be supported over the pier cap with a pedestal and bearing arrangement”, He further said.
“We have completed the tender process in record time and now the pile load testing has also started. We hope the results are positive. Reaching Thrippunithura is vital for KMRL as well as for people of Thrippunithura.” said Mr. Sharma.
The initial pile load test of 1200 diameter circular pile for the stretch is being done to validate the safe pile capacity considered for the design. The test load is 1050 tonne which is 2.5 times the safe load of 420 tonnes considered in the design. The testing is expected to be completed in 48 hours. KMRL had engaged the consortium of KEC-VNC for this phase of construction.
