Click to play videoNew Delhi: Here are some interesting facts about the Delhi Metro. In Phase II of the project, it took the Delhi Metro half the time to complete double the distance covered in Phase 1. Has the incessant rush to complete ahead of schedule affected quality control? Experts are divided over this.
The DMRC, many are saying, has engineered its own fall in an instant. So what is behind this fall from grace?
QUESTION 1: Was the project fast approaching the Commonwealth deadline?
Phase I began in 1998 and three metro lines covering 65 kilometers were set up. This tool eight years to complete, but Phase II has just taken four years to complete and includes 10 lines covering 121 kilometers - that's almost double the work in half the time. This may have led to compromise on quality.
Also, when the DMRC picks up a project, it floats tenders and that is when companies like Gammon India - which was handling the section that collapsed on Sunday - pitch for contracts. To meet deadlines, these companies further sub-let work.
QUESTION 2: Does sub-letting construction work compromise quality?
Even if it does, DMRC officials are supposed to monitor quality and safety standards. In that case, should DMRC share the blame with Gammon India or is the DMRC short of supervisory staff?
Feedback Ventures President, Akhileshwar Sahay says, "There were three project managers for Phase I and in the 128 km phase, there were nine project managers. So where is the question of lesser manpower, of less supervision?"
DMRC's design model has also been questioned. Delhi Metro is 83 per cent elevated and 15 per cent underground. Experts say this plan is more accident-prone.
Chairman Delhi Urban Arts Commission, KT Ravindran says, "In most parts of the world, the Metro is underground in parts of the city and only on the periphery does it run over the ground."
The report on the Laxmi Nagar accident last October pointed out structural faults, contractor AFCON was blamed and blacklisted. DMRC can ill-afford to blacklist another major contractor like Gammon. Everyone is waiting to see whether deadlines or common sense will win this time around.
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