Afcons Infrastructure Limited (Afcons) has completed the first segment erection using a launching girder at Piplani Chouraha for the 13 km elevated Blue Line viaduct linking Bhadbhada to Ratnagiri. The commissioning of the first segment marks a historic construction milestone and will enable the rapid progress of the 12.9 km Blue Line corridor. The operation demonstrated the deployment of specialised launching equipment to place precast segments with precision. The use of precast segments and mechanical launching reduced the need for prolonged lane closures.

The work forms part of Bhopal Metro, also known as Bhoj Metro, which is being developed by the Madhya Pradesh Metro Rail Co Limited (MPMRCL). Afcons is executing the Blue Line as an engineering, procurement and construction contractor. The company used the launching girder to advance span erection while reducing the need for extensive temporary supports over urban thoroughfares. The approach is suited to urban corridors where minimising ground-level works is essential.

The launch was carried out in the presence of the MPMRCL Director Works and other project officials, who observed the segment placement and commissioning procedures. The method allowed sequential assembly of girders and supported continuity of works along the elevated viaduct. Project teams will continue phased segment erections to maintain momentum on the corridor. Teams followed defined safety and quality protocols throughout the placement sequence.

Afcons is the flagship infrastructure engineering and construction company of the Shapoorji Pallonji Group with a legacy of six decades and a track record in technologically complex projects. As per the latest ENR survey, Afcons is ranked among the top 140 international contractors globally and holds specialised standings in bridge and marine works. For further information corporate communications has been listed with contact details supplied by the company. The company cited its decades-long expertise as instrumental in executing complex viaduct works.