Chennai Metros Panagal Park Tunnelling Set to Commence This Month
Posted on: 13/Jan/2024 11:02:38 AM
Panagal Park in Chennai is set to witness significant developments as part of the Chennai Metro Rail`s phase II project. The upcoming tunnelling work will involve the deployment of two tunnel boring machines (TBMs) to create an underground network connecting T. Nagar and Kodambakkam.
In the initial stage, the `Pelican` TBM is scheduled to launch by the end of this month from Panagal Park in T. Nagar, undertaking the task of boring a 2 km tunnel to Kodambakkam. Subsequently, another TBM will follow suit after a few weeks.
Anticipated to be completed within a year, the construction will result in the establishment of twin tunnels between T. Nagar and Kodambakkam. The Panagal Park Metro Rail station, situated in the corridor 4 of the 116-km phase II project, is being built as an underground station. This corridor extends from Poonamallee to Light House, transitioning from an elevated structure from Poonamallee to Power House and going underground from Kodambakkam to Light House.
Officials from the Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) have provided insights into the tunnelling process, indicating that the TBMs will operate at a depth of approximately 20 meters initially, gradually reaching depths of 25 meters as they approach Kodambakkam. The geotechnical investigation has revealed a predominantly clay soil composition with some sandy soil and occasional rocks in certain locations along this stretch.
During the tunnelling beneath Panagal Park and Kodambakkam, the TBMs will pass under the railway track of Kodambakkam suburban station for a short stretch. To ensure minimal disturbance and vibrations, the speed of the machine will be significantly reduced during this phase. Guidelines from the railways have been obtained to ensure the uninterrupted continuation of services. The progress will be closely monitored to uphold safety and efficiency standards. The `Pelican` TBM has already been lowered at the Panagal Park station, marking a significant milestone in the project.
