Ravindranath Constructions Secures Contract for construction of platforms in Karnataka

RITES Limited, a Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Railways, recently awarded M/s Ravindranath Constructions Pvt. Ltd. a Letter of Acceptance (LoA) for the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) of platforms, including platform fencing/wall, as part of the development of a coaching depot at Koteganguru in the Mysuru Division of the South Western Railway. The project, tendered under the reference number RITES/BLR/LT/03/EPC-Koteganguru/2023, involves a contract amount of INR 3,25,56,242.04/- (including GST) and is set to be completed within 270 days.

The scope of the project encompasses various crucial aspects, including geotechnical investigation, topographical survey, design, construction of platforms with fencing/wall, integrated testing and commissioning, and approval from authorities. The endeavor involves the development of a Coaching Depot at Koteganguru within the Shivamogga-Talaguppa section, covering civil, electrical, signal & telecom works along a stretch of 2.45 km.

Situated between Shivamogga and Talaguppa stations, the proposed coaching depot is designed to accommodate significant infrastructure, allowing for the passage of trains with a 25-tonne axle load and maximum speeds of 130 km/h on the mainline and 30 km/h for loop lines.

The comprehensive scope of work encompasses the design and construction of various elements such as formation in embankments/cuttings, bridges, buildings, track works, and integration with the Indian Railway system. It also includes the creation of essential facilities like station buildings, service buildings, quarters, watering arrangements, drainage & sewerage facilities, among others.

One of the essential aspects of this project is the adoption of the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) mode. Traditionally, railway construction projects followed item rate contracts, which often led to delays and cost overruns due to design delays, variations in quantities, and inadequate fund provisions. Embracing the EPC approach transfers responsibilities for investigations, design, and construction to the contractor for a lump sum price determined through competitive bidding. This method aims for faster implementation, cost-effective designs, and reduced time overruns while balancing risks between the contractor and the authority.

The Model EPC Agreement employed here seeks to mitigate the drawbacks of item rate contracting by providing a framework that allocates risks and rewards fairly, minimizes uncertainties, and ensures predictable costs and timelines. It incorporates global best practices related to force majeure, termination, dispute resolution, and transparent procedures, promoting equity between the authority and the contractor.

By adopting the EPC model, RITES Limited aims to expedite project implementation, enhance project execution capabilities, and ensure efficient allocation of resources, ultimately contributing to the growth and modernization of the railway network in the region.

News by Rahul Yelligetti