India's Tata Projects bags Dhaka Metro deal

Indian infrastructure company Tata Projects has secured a contract to build a 5.2-kilometre underground railway section as part of the expansion of Dhaka's metro rail network. The company will execute the project in a joint venture with Japan's Nishimatsu Construction and Toda Corporation.

The development was reported by Indian media outlet The Economic Times on Thursday, November 12.

The joint venture has received the contract for Package CP-06 from Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited (DMTCL). The project involves construction of the main underground railway section and three stations: Khilkhet, Airport Terminal 3 and Airport Station. A shaft will also be built at the northern end of the railway section.

The contract is valued at $653 million and is being implemented with financial assistance from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Bangladesh government. The project is targeted for completion within five years of the commencement of construction, The Business Standard reported.

In a statement, Tata Projects said the contract would further strengthen its position in the international infrastructure construction market. It would also provide an opportunity to leverage its experience in delivering complex urban rail infrastructure through coordination with international contractors and government agencies.

Rajiv Menon, president and chief growth and strategy officer of Tata Projects, said investment in metro rail and railway infrastructure was increasing across the Middle East, Asia and emerging economies amid expanding urbanisation.

He said the Dhaka project would help enhance Tata Projects' international profile and credibility.

Menon added that engineering expertise, timely project delivery and effective local partnerships had become increasingly important in executing major infrastructure projects. Participation in Dhaka's metro rail project would allow Tata Projects to demonstrate its capabilities in these areas.

The MRT Line-1 project is being implemented to develop Dhaka's first underground metro rail system. It is aimed at improving connectivity between key locations, including the airport area and Khilkhet, and other parts of the capital.

The project is part of broader efforts to reduce traffic congestion and modernise the city's public transport system.