Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) on Saturday began repair works to fix the ‘honeycomb formation’ (concrete distress) on a beam at Trinity metro station.
Deputy Chief Minister G. Parameshwara, who is also the Bengaluru Development Minister, after inspecting the area, told the media that there was absolutely nothing wrong with pillar number 155 on which the beam rests.
“Honeycomb formation on the cross beam might have appeared as the concrete might not have set while the beam was being cast. The cross-beam cast was done on the project site. The bearing on which the beam was placed has slid slightly. This was noticed while inspecting the spot,” said Dr. Parameshwara.
Expert opinion from external sources, such as the IISc. and the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation, was sought. “A decision has been taken to fix the honeycomb issue and completely replace the bearing.”
The BMRCL has erected four steel structures to support the beam and carry out the repairs. Services on the Purple Line are likely to be suspended between M.G. Road and Indiranagar next weekend. The BMRCL has taken a decision to operate buses between the two stations free of cost for the metro passengers.
On whether the BMRCL will initiate action against the contractor or in-charge officials, he said, “Experts in the field are examining when the honeycomb formation on the beam developed: whether it was during the casting itself or at a later stage. We will act on the basis of their reports.”
Dr. Parameshwara took the metro from Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Vidhana Soudha station to Trinity to inspect the area. The traffic was hit on the busy M.G. Road for some time during the inspection near the pillar.
After laying the foundation stone for development works under Smart Cities project in Tumakuru on Saturday, Dr. Parameshwara expressed interest in getting Namma Metro services extended to Tumakuru. He said he had discussed the issue with officials.
