K-RIDE launches the longest U-Girder in Bengaluru Railways

K-RIDE introduces India’s first 31-meter U-girder, boosting progress on the Bengaluru Suburban Railway Project.

K-RIDE, a joint venture of the Railways Ministry and the Karnataka government, achieved a significant milestone by launching the first 31-meter-long, single-span precast U-girder for the Bengaluru Suburban Railway Project. This engineering marvel for the Mallige Line establishes a new record for India’s longest U-girder.

The launch marks an important milestone in the country’s rail infrastructure development. The U-girder was cast in January 2024 at Gollahalli and successfully launched at Yeshwantpur. K-RIDE authorities stated that this installation is part of the continuing building of the Baiyappanahalli-Chikkabanavara route.

Advantages of U-Girders 
Design and efficiency: U-girders are U-shaped, pre-tensioned, precast constructions that are intended to assure exceptional quality while greatly reducing construction time. Their longer length decreases the need for extra foundations and piers, making them a more cost-effective and efficient option for current rail infrastructure.

Comparison to box girders: Unlike segmental box girders, which must be assembled in various segments over a six- to seven-day period, U-girders span two piers and can be launched overnight. Furthermore, U-girders are lighter than box girder portions, which simplifies the construction process.

Bengaluru Suburban Railway Project Progress
K-RIDE is in charge of implementing the 149-kilometre Bengaluru Suburban Railway Project, which promises to transform urban transportation in the city. The agency intends to use 450 U-girders for the eight-kilometre elevated segment of the Mallige Line between Hebbal and Yeshwantpur. At present, 60 U-girders have been successfully cast at Gollahalli.

While metro rail projects normally use 28-metre-long U-girders, the BSRP’s usage of 31-metre-long girders demonstrates K-RIDE’s unique engineering problems and advances. This advancement highlights the project’s ambition and indicates a dedication to providing cutting-edge infrastructure solutions.

The Bengaluru Suburban Railway Project aims to revolutionise urban connectivity by delivering faster, safer, and more efficient transit options. The successful introduction of the record-breaking U-girder is a critical step towards realising this ambition, demonstrating the potential of precast solutions in modern rail infrastructure.

For more details, visit: https://kride.in/

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