Nagpur: Nagpur Metro Phase-II has entered the track-laying stage, with MahaMetro laying the first tracks on the Kamptee stretch of Reach-2. Around 2 km of track has been laid so far, marking a shift from civil construction to railway systems work on the upcoming network.The work began after completion of viaduct and segment erection on the available stretch. MahaMetro plans to take up track-laying on other reaches in phases this year as more viaduct stretches are completed.The tracks feature a redesigned fastening system that MahaMetro says will reduce construction costs, improve flexibility and minimise vibrations. The system has been approved by Indian Railways’ Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO).The new design uses two holes instead of the earlier four-hole arrangement to fasten the track to the concrete plinth. Re-engineering has reduced the size of the base plate and width of the plinth, resulting in savings in track-laying costs.Specially designed double rubber pads have also been introduced to improve flexibility and reduce vibrations generated by train movement. The system is expected to lower stress on tracks and improve their durability over their operational life.To minimise installation errors, MahaMetro has adopted a gauge-based ‘Go-No Go’ checking system. The work is being carried out under an ISO-certified Integrated Management System covering quality, safety and environmental standards.MahaMetro managing director Shravan Hardikar recently inspected the track-laying work and reviewed the systems being adopted. He discussed measures with officials to minimise track wear and tear during operations and directed them to focus on long-term durability.The start of track-laying marks a key milestone for Phase-II, with stretches where viaduct construction is complete now progressing towards systems installation, followed by testing and commissioning.
