The Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation (MahaMetro) has achieved a key milestone in the city’s Phase II expansion by launching the first 25-metre span between Lekha Nagar and Kanhan River stations using a precast system. This development marks the beginning of a significant infrastructure upgrade that will enhance connectivity in Nagpur’s expanding urban landscape.
A major highlight of the project is the proposed 1.3-kilometre extension over the Kanhan River, which will include a 500-metre steel viaduct. This structure, estimated to cost around ₹300 crore, represents a substantial investment in steel-intensive urban transit infrastructure. The decision to integrate a large steel viaduct demonstrates the growing reliance on steel for durability, efficiency, and adaptability in mass transport systems.
The project is expected to not only improve commuter convenience but also underline the strategic importance of steel in public infrastructure projects. Steel viaducts are increasingly being chosen for metro and rail networks due to their ability to handle heavy loads, reduce construction timelines, and provide long-term structural stability. In the case of Nagpur Metro, the use of steel will also ensure minimal disruption to the river ecosystem during construction, offering a balance between engineering efficiency and environmental sensitivity.
Industry observers view this development as a significant step towards modernising India’s urban transit systems. By combining precast concrete spans with large-scale steel infrastructure, the Nagpur Metro Phase II project showcases a hybrid construction model that leverages the strengths of both materials.
The steel viaduct over the Kanhan River is set to become a landmark element of the metro corridor, reinforcing the role of steel as a cornerstone material in India’s infrastructure growth.
