MMRDA launches 65-metre steel span for Thane-Bhiwandi segment of Metro Line 5

Weighing a massive 456 metric tons, the steel bridge, an open web girder, now links two metro piers over the tracks of the Central Railway, just between Kharbav and Bhiwandi stations. It is 20 metres high above the ground and forms part of a larger viaduct that will carry Metro Line 5.

When completed, the 24.9 km line will connect Thane with Kalyan via Bhiwandi, with 17 stations. The line will be fully elevated except for a 3-km underground section in Bhiwandi.

The construction was conducted by an intricate overnight operation, with coordination between MMRDA, Central Railway, and traffic police.

Due to the compact site over a crowded road and a functioning railway track, the construction had to be done with accuracy and under severe safety protocols.

“The site was very tricky because there were several layers of activity like the road at ground level, live railways above it, and then the over-lying metro structure on top. Carrying out this type of work needed to be well-planned, cleared by several authorities, and coordinated in real time,” said an MMRDA official.

For sliding the huge girder into position, engineers deployed massive cranes, temporary structural supports, rollers and jacks. Traffic diversion and blocks placed on the rail line were done to provide protection during the movement.

“In spite of the complexity, the team was able to execute the span installation without any hiccups. The rest of the work on this section including bearing placement and casting of the deck slab is likely to be completed by April 24,” the official added. Eight power blocks have been allotted by Central Railway to enable this.