Metrorail safety upgrade: 10 steel brackets installed

Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited (DMTCL) is working to implement the recommendations of the Safety Audit Committee to further strengthen safety on Metrorail Line-6. Following the High Court's directive, steel brackets are being installed at four identified piers along with other technical measures.

DMTCL confirmed this in a press release on Monday night. The progress of these activities was reviewed at the sixth meeting of the committee formed to implement the safety audit recommendations. DMTCL said a total of 10 steel brackets have been installed at Piers 423, 442, 446 and 448. The bearing pad of Pier 448 has also been replaced. The process of replacing five more bearing pads from stock and purchasing 22 new bearing pads is underway.

To monitor settlement or cracking in the structure, settlement markers are planned to be installed at 27 pier heads, with five already procured. Similarly, 27 crack gauges are being procured, with two already in hand.

DMTCL has taken steps to engage Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) as a structural consultant for permanent solutions to cracks in pier heads and box girders. A total of 102 crack gauges are planned for installation across the structure, with three already purchased and procurement of the rest ongoing.

Engineers have also inspected sparking incidents in the Metrorail's overhead catenary system and electrical system. Work has begun on modifying the design of insulated overlaps to resolve the issue. Waterproofing of all stations and power substations, along with emergency communication systems for control rooms during power outages, is also progressing.

DMTCL said alongside immediate measures, preparations are also underway to implement the medium-term recommendations of the Safety Audit Committee. The company hopes that these efforts will bring greater stability to the safety and operation of Metrorail Line-6 once completed in line with court directives and expert advice.