Infrastructure giant Larsen & Toubro (L&T) has secured significant "design & build" orders for two crucial systems packages of the Dhaka Mass Rapid Transit Development Project (Dhaka Metro) in Bangladesh. These new contracts, valued at over Rs 5,000 crore, led to a nearly one percent rise in L&T's shares on Tuesday, closing at Rs 3713 against the previous close of Rs 3677.
New Contracts for Dhaka Metro Line 1
The newly awarded contracts include Package CP09 for Track Works & Electrical Systems and Package CP10 for Signalling, Telecommunications & Platform Screen Doors (PSD). These packages are integral to Bangladesh's first underground metro project, marking a significant step in the country's urban development.
This is not L&T's first involvement with the Dhaka Metro. The company previously successfully delivered the integrated railway systems package for Dhaka Metro Line 6, Bangladesh's inaugural metro rail corridor, which is now fully operational.
L&T's Global Transit Expertise
Ramkumar S, Senior Executive Vice President & Head – Transportation Infrastructure at L&T, commented on the repeat orders from Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited (DMTCL). He stated, “The repeat orders from Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited (DMTCL) are a testament to L&T’s capabilities in delivering large scale, integrated urban transit projects globally.” He further highlighted L&T's strong track record, including the E&M systems for Dhaka Metro Line 6 and ongoing work for the Jakarta Metro, positioning the company to seamlessly integrate multiple systems in coordination with OEMs and stakeholders.
Project Scope and Funding
The Dhaka Metro Line 1 project is being funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and aims to establish a modern mass transit system spanning approximately 31 kilometers. The project encompasses two primary routes: the Airport Route, connecting Kamalapur to the Airport, and the Purbachal Route, running from Natun Bazar to Purbachal Terminal. The line will feature 19 stations and a depot located at Pitalganj.
The 'major' classification of these orders signifies their value exceeding Rs 5,000 crore, underscoring the scale and importance of L&T's contribution to Bangladesh's infrastructure growth.