Work to construct a depot-cum-yard in Koyambedu for the Chennai Metro Rail has commenced. The facility spread over 26 hectares is expected to be ready for operation in 36 months.
Chennai Metro Rail Limited has awarded the tender for construction of the depot, at a cost of Rs.198.10 crore, on November 2 to Larsen & Toubro Ltd., a press release said.
The scope of work involves design and construction of various structures located in the depot, comprising of earthwork filling and compaction with vertical drains, viaduct ramps to provide access to the depot from Koyambedu station; and construction of buildings to accommodate stabling lines, washing plant and maintenance workshops.
A multi-storeyed building to house an Operation Control Centre and various offices for depot staff will also come up at the site. The contract includes provision of services such as power, lighting, air-conditioning and ventilation, fire protection, compound wall, canteen, the release said.
The depot would be used for berthing the trains during non-operational hours and for carrying out various maintenance cycles. It would feed the trains into the system as per operational requirements. The state-of-the-art Operation Control Centre located in the depot would monitor all train movements and operational activities round the clock.
