The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) is introducing state-of-the-art monitoring mechanisms for its Phase 4 expansion project, which involves constructing underground corridors through challenging strata in crowded residential and commercial areas. With the aim of ensuring safe and efficient construction, the DMRC will utilize smart gadgets and real-time data transmission to monitor the condition of buildings and predict geological features ahead of the Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs).
According to officials, the DMRC (Delhi Metro Rail Corporation) is preparing to implement an advanced system that will monitor the condition of buildings in real-time during the tunnelling work on the Janakpuri West- RK Ashram Marg corridor, specifically between Derawal Nagar and Pulbangash. This initiative is part of the Phase 4 expansion of the metro. The mentioned section includes three underground metro stations: Derawal Nagar, Ghanta Ghar, and Pulbangash. These areas are highly congested, and there are numerous buildings that are centuries-old and not in good condition, as described by the officials. Hence, the DMRC will need to maintain constant surveillance on these structures once the tunnelling work begins in this area starting next month.
In a statement, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) mentioned that it has previously undertaken construction projects in similarly challenging areas in Old Delhi for the Violet and Yellow lines, achieving significant success by implementing round-the-clock monitoring.
However, this time, the process has been modernized by implementing digital solutions that enable real-time monitoring with just a click of a button.
According to the officials, this will be made possible by incorporating intelligent devices such as Automatic Total Stations, vibration sensors, tilt meters, and load cells. These devices have the capability to capture and transmit continuous data in real-time, which will be received and processed by a Data Acquisition System (DAS). The DAS will generate relevant reports and distribute them to all stakeholders through SMS and email.
As the tunnelling work commences, the behaviour of the structures will be closely observed and monitored. To ensure timely action, the data will be readily available on a custom-made software accessible through mobile devices or desktop computers. This round-the-clock monitoring system will be implemented, as stated by the officials.
According to the statement, the newly implemented BEAM System allows the Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) to function as a real-time probe, enabling it to predict the geological composition up to 20 meters ahead of its cutter head face. It helps anticipate any unexpected encounters with filled wells, cavities, or aquifers, which, if not treated properly, may result in ground settlement if struck by the TBM.
In recent years, the DMRC has placed significant emphasis on digitalizing its project monitoring mechanisms. Officials explained that through the in-house developed STAMP (System for Tracking and Monitoring Project) software, DMRC engineers can closely monitor the construction progress.
During the Covid pandemic, when physical presence in offices was limited, the DMRC extensively relied on Building Information Modelling (BIM) software for the approval of various designs related to the Phase 4 structures. Even now, DMRC engineers continue to utilize BIM software extensively, as stated by the officials. As part of its Phase 4 expansion, the Delhi Metro is currently constructing approximately 28 km of new underground corridors. These new lines span a total of 65 km and are being laid across three separate corridors.
The upcoming construction of underground corridors through diverse strata poses a significant engineering challenge. These corridors will traverse densely populated residential and commercial areas in Sadar Bazar, Nabi Karim, and the southern ridge on the Mehrauli-Badarpur road.
According to officials, the DMRC has currently accomplished the construction of 2.2 km of underground tunnels, facilitating both upward and downward movement, between Janakpuri West and Krishna Park Extension on the Janakpuri West - RK Ashram Marg corridor.
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