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Ensuring Structural Integrity:


              Civil Engineering Approaches for Long-Term Reliability






              Dileep Kumar K K, DGM (Civil)

              Madankumar P, DGM (CTR)



              In Kochi Metro, the silent strength of civil infrastructure plays a crucial role in ensuring

              uninterrupted operations. From elevated viaducts to station platforms, depot structures,
              and water management systems, the physical backbone of the metro is entrusted to

              the  Civil  Engineering  team  for  upkeep,  reliability,  and  long-term  sustainability.  This
              article  captures  the  interventions,  innovative  materials  used,  and  improvement
              initiatives undertaken over the past year by the Civil department of the O&M wing.
              Preventive Civil Maintenance Framework


              A structured regime of Quarterly, Half-Yearly, and Annual Preventive Inspections has
              been sustained for all critical structures, including:
                  Elevated viaduct spans and piers

                  Station buildings, roof structures, and platforms

                  Muttom Depot facilities and administrative blocks
                  Ancillary systems such as ETP/STP, bio digesters, and pest control

              Visual  inspections,  soundness  checks,  minor  rectifications,  and  systematic
              documentation have helped detect and address potential concerns early.
              Structural Monitoring and Condition Assessment

                  NDT  (Non-Destructive  Testing):        Rebound  hammer  and  ultrasonic  pulse

                  velocity  tests  have  been  conducted  on  selected  viaduct  piers  to  assess  early
                  signs  of  internal  or  surface  distress  in  concrete.  These  tests  allow  condition

                  assessment without damaging the structure.
                  Crack Mapping & Monitoring: Thermal cracks, honeycombs, and joint leakages
                  observed during inspections are being mapped, tagged, and regularly monitored.
                  This ensures structural integrity is maintained and helps plan long-term repairs.

                  Water Drainage Focus:       Special emphasis has been placed on maintaining
                  proper roof drainage slopes, sealed joints, and periodic gutter cleaning to prevent

                  leakage and seepage during monsoon seasons.
                  Station Concrete Surface Testing:             Hammer testing was carried out
                  across  all  station  concrete  structures  to  assess  surface  concrete  hardness  and

                  deterioration,  helping  to  pre-emptively  identify  zones  needing  surface
                  strengthening or repair.
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