Namma metro: Phase 1 of the project beset by problems

 BENGALURU: Phase 1 of the Namma Metro Project has been beset by problems, because of the leaky roofs, cracks on the tracks structural flaws in a viaduct.

After the honeycombing defect, BMRCL union members alleged that these hitches are pointers to poor quality in maintenance and construction. 

Vice-president of Bengaluru Metro Rail Employees Union, Surya Narayana Murthy, demanded a investigation.He said, “BMRCL is blaming a honeycomb formation to divert the attention. We suspect the real reason is poor quality viaduct bearings. There should be thorough probe and officials responsible should be identified”.

Repairs are undertaken by BMRCL on the honeycomb concreting defect in the viaduct near Trinity Station. They will also conduct a survey with ultrasonic technology along the 42km Phase 1 network. After the completion of this,  they will come to know if there are any structural flaws in other parts of the system, officials said.

BMRCL discovered a crack near the crossover section at Yelachenahalli station in the month of february. In october 2017, a part of the false ceiling at the KR Market station collapsed.

Prof JM Chandra Kishen, of the department of civil engineering, Indian Institute of science welcomed BMRCL’s decision to carry out non-destructive tests to assess the impact of the honeycombing on the overall safety of the structure. He also added,” This is a public utility structure, so precautions are required through regular maintenance”.