Chennai Metro Rail wins award for solution of phase-2 project

24 Jul 2024 CW Team

According to a release, a tunnel ventilation solution developed by Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) that contributed to cost reductions in the phase-2 project has been honored at the 20th International Symposium on Aerodynamics, Ventilation and Fire in Tunnels (ISAVFT 2024). The award, scheduled to be presented during the symposium in Copenhagen, Denmark, from October 28 to 30, falls under the category of ?sustainability in underground design and construction?.

In a paper titled "Chennai Metro, India- A case study", authored by Hari Prasad, AGM (mechanical system) at CMRL, and R Singh S Vassoudevane from Systra Infrastructure, the challenges of designing underground stations in densely populated cities were explored. One major challenge highlighted was the limited space available, which necessitates minimizing the footprint of essential service areas such as electrical and mechanical rooms. This optimization is crucial while ensuring functionality, passenger experience, comfort, and safety.

The study aimed at optimizing the layout of ventilation systems within Chennai Metro Rail to achieve space and cost savings. One proposed strategy involved placing a tunnel ventilation fan (TVF) at one end of the station and utilizing it selectively when tunnel ventilation and trackway exhaust were unnecessary. This approach reduced the number of fans required from eight to two, resulting in substantial savings in space and costs. Furthermore, the study demonstrated that even with a single TVF, the system meets all fire safety standards.

The release attributed the savings realized in the Chennai Metro Rail phase-2 project to the optimization of civil space, reduction in fan numbers, and decreased requirements for connected electrical load and cabling.

Resources

03 Jun 2026

Jyoti Structures Launches Heat Safety Drive Across Sites

Jyoti Structures (JSL) has strengthened heat safety measures across its project sites and manufacturing facilities as temperatures rise across India. The company has implemented a Summer Safety Plan covering all transmission line projects to address risks related to heat stress, dehydration and worker fatigue.The initiative includes rescheduling work away from peak afternoon temperatures, provision of drinking water, ORS and lemon-salt solutions, and installation of rest shelters near work areas. Daily toolbox talks, worker health monitoring, first-aid preparedness, emergency transport arrange..

MHADA Declares 82 Buildings Most Dangerous in Central and South Mumbai

The Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) has declared 82 buildings as most dangerous across Central and South Mumbai and has appealed to residents to vacate immediately. The list, prepared after structural assessments by the authority, identifies buildings judged to pose imminent risk to occupants and to passersby. Local civic bodies have been asked to coordinate evacuations and to make arrangements for temporary shelter and rehabilitation for displaced households. Officials said the authority prioritised buildings with visible structural distress, severe cracking, tiltin..

Damage Reported At Halwara Airport Terminal After First Rains

Severe damage was reported at the terminal of Halwara Airport during the first major rain spell of the season, prompting immediate concern among aviation and local authorities. Images from the site showed water ingress and visible deterioration of the terminal interior, affecting passenger areas and ancillary services. The airport authority suspended certain operations temporarily to assess structural safety and ensure passenger wellbeing. Preliminary inspections have prioritised electrical systems and roof seals to prevent further water ingress. State aviation officials ordered a formal inqui..