Thane Metro transport landscape is set for a major transformation. The Maha Metro has floated bids and received responses for Package C-01 of the Thane Integral Ring Metro Project. This ambitious package involves the design and construction of an elevated metro viaduct stretching 20.527 km, complete with a depot approach viaduct and three special spans.
With an estimated cost of ₹1,424 crore and a tight deadline of 30 months, this project represents both an engineering challenge and a massive opportunity to reshape Thane’s public transit network.
Thane Metro Package C-01: Scope of Work
The scope of this package includes:
- 20.527 km elevated metro viaduct between UG Ramp and Balkum Naka.
- Depot approach viaduct for seamless depot connectivity.
- Three special spans, requiring advanced construction methodologies.
Estimated Project Cost: ₹1,424 crore
Deadline: 30 months
Participating Bidders
Maha Metro has attracted some of India’s most reputable infrastructure players for this package. The list of bidders includes:
- Afcons Infrastructure Ltd.
- G R Infraprojects Ltd. (GRIL)
- J Kumar Infraprojects Ltd. (JKIL)
- Kalpataru Projects International Ltd. (KPIL)
- Larsen & Toubro Ltd. (L&T)
- Rail Vikas Nigam Ltd. (RVNL)
Each of these firms has significant experience in executing metro, viaduct, and large-scale infrastructure projects across India.
Why This Project Matters for Thane
Thane is one of India’s fastest-growing urban centers. Its road networks are chronically congested, and public transport demand is surging. This project is crucial because it will:
- Enhance Connectivity: Link major nodes within Thane and integrate with other transport systems.
- Reduce Congestion: Elevated metro lines will take thousands of vehicles off the road daily.
- Cut Travel Time: Faster, predictable commutes for daily passengers.
- Boost Sustainability: Shift from private vehicles to mass transit reduces emissions.
- Support Urban Growth: Improves property values, business opportunities, and overall liveability.
Engineering & Design Challenges
Constructing a 20.5 km elevated viaduct with special spans is no small feat. Key technical considerations include:
1. Special Spans
- Long-span construction methods such as balanced cantilever or incremental launching may be required.
- Must be designed to cross busy roads, rail lines, or waterways.
2. Depot Approach Viaduct
- Requires careful gradient design and structural integration with depot facilities.
3. Foundation & Alignment
- Geotechnical studies for soil conditions.
- Managing urban utility diversions.
- Ensuring alignment doesn’t clash with existing flyovers or buildings.
4. Construction Logistics
- Use of precast segmental construction to save time.
- Heavy equipment deployment in dense urban zones.
5. Safety & Quality
- Elevated spans require robust safety measures for workers and the public.
- Continuous monitoring of alignment and deflection.
Economic & Social Impact
- Employment Generation: Both direct (engineers, construction workers) and indirect (suppliers, logistics, services).
- Boost to Local Economy: Demand for materials and associated services.
- Urban Transformation: Elevated viaducts redefine the city skyline and make metro travel accessible to lakhs of commuters.
Project Timeline
- Tender Released: May 2025
- Bids Submitted: September 2025
- Evaluation in Progress: Maha Metro will now evaluate technical and financial bids.
- Award & Mobilization: Expected in early 2026.
- Completion Deadline: ~30 months after award.
Key stages:
- Final alignment & design approvals.
- Foundation and pier construction.
- Special span erection.
- Track laying and systems installation.
- Testing & commissioning.
Challenges & Risks
- Monsoon Delays – Heavy rains in Thane can slow construction.
- Utility Relocations – Existing pipelines, cables, and drains may cause delays.
- Cost Escalations – Steel, cement, and fuel prices can affect budget.
- Regulatory Clearances – Delays in approvals from multiple agencies.
- Safety Risks – Elevated construction requires advanced safety planning.
Conclusion
Thane Metro’s Package C-01 is a landmark project for the city and the region. With participation from India’s leading infrastructure companies and an ambitious execution plan, this project promises to transform Thane’s urban mobility landscape.
The coming months will reveal which bidder wins the contract, but one thing is clear: this package is a key step in building a modern, sustainable, and efficient metro system for Thane.