LUCKNOW: The Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC) has awarded a Rs 384 crore civil construction contract for a major elevated section of the Lucknow Metro’s East-West Corridor under Phase 1B.The contract has been awarded to Gujarat based Ranjit Buildcon Ltd for the design and construction of an elevated viaduct and five metro stations between Thakurganj and Vasantkunj.The contract, valued at about Rs 384 crore excluding GST and around Rs 453 crore including GST, was awarded after a competitive tendering process. According to UPMRC, the work is scheduled to be completed within 24 months from the commencement date.The package includes the construction of around 4.6 km of elevated metro viaduct along with station structures and a 740-metre ramp connecting the main corridor to the depot entry and exit facilities. Five stations will be built under the package: Thakurganj, Balaganj, Sarfarazganj, Musabagh and Vasantkunj.Apart from the viaduct and stations, the scope of work covers architectural works, water supply and drainage systems, sanitary installations, fire-fighting systems, electrical and mechanical works, pre-engineered building structures and external development works.The East-West Corridor is expected to improve connectivity between residential areas, commercial centres and transport hubs in the city. UPMRC Managing Director Sushil Kumar said the corridor would strengthen urban mobility and provide commuters with an alternative to road transport.Earlier this month, UPMRC also awarded a separate contract worth over Rs 127 crore to Mumbai based GHV (India) Private Limited for the construction of the Vasantkunj Metro Depot, which will support operations on the East-West Corridor.The depot will serve as the maintenance, inspection and stabling facility for trains operating on the corridor. Planned infrastructure includes train washing systems, maintenance equipment, bogie handling facilities and water recycling systems. The depot is also designed with environmental features such as a zero-discharge wastewater system, sewage and effluent treatment plants, and water reuse facilities.
