Sat Jun 14 02:23:04 UTC 2025: ## Chennai Metro Rail Construction Flaw Leads to Fatal Accident
**CHENNAI, June 14, 2025 (The Hindu) -** A 43-year-old man was killed on Thursday night after two girders collapsed at a Chennai Metro Rail construction site in Manapakkam. Ramesh, a resident of Nagercoil, was passing by the site when the girders fell, crushing him.
Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has launched a detailed investigation into the incident, pointing to construction flaws as a likely cause. “Prima facie, it appears that the method of construction is at fault. The I-girders should have been secured well,” an official stated. Vibration from heavy traffic over a poorly maintained road surface may have also contributed to the collapse.
The incident occurred at a location where a double-decker corridor is under construction, with a flyover at the first level and CMRL’s phase II elevated corridor 5 above it. CMRL had recently celebrated the erection of a 33.3-meter U-girder near the site. While U-girders are used for the Metro Rail, I-girders are being used for the flyover.
Officials suspect the length of the I-girders, also measuring 33.3 meters, may have contributed to the instability, along with potential uneven loading on the supporting frame.
CMRL has initiated a comprehensive safety audit across all construction sites, reinforcing existing I-girders with additional rods and welding. They assure that the U-girders used for the elevated corridor are safe.
CMRL has provided an ex-gratia compensation of Rs 5 lakhs to the victim’s family, while the contractor, Larsen and Toubro (L&T), has extended an additional compensation of Rs 20 lakhs.
Sources highlight the need for increased vigilance and safety measures, particularly at locations like Saligramam and Arcot Road. Commuters like R K Ravichandran have expressed concerns about the safety of Metro Rail structures, urging CMRL to prioritize safety during construction.
The incident underscores the critical importance of rigorous safety protocols and thorough oversight in large-scale infrastructure projects to prevent tragic accidents.
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