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Tunneling works in Kalamaria Branch of Thessaloniki Metro run exceptionally well. According to information provided by Attiko Metro at Ypodomes.com, the first TBM is ready to enter the third station on the Line (Aretsou Station), probably by tomorrow or, at the latest, by the end of the week.

The pace of the tunnelling works is much faster than expected as 20-22 meters of new tunnel are dug daily. If this tempo is maintained throughout the works, then it is very likely that we will see the TBM meeting the Main Line ahead of schedule, probably in the end of 2018. The starting point of this underground journey was Mikra Station and until Aretsou Station, the distance is about 1.5 km, opened in just 4 months, while the whole tunnel has a length of 4.8 km.

The second TBM arrived has reached Nea Krini Station and in a few days’ time, it will resume its journey to Patrikios Station. All this progress suggests that overstructure works (i.e. tracks’ installation) will start in 2019, aiming for the trial routes to commence in 2020 the official operation to start in 2021.

It is reminded that Kalamaria Branch of Thessaloniki Metro will be sharing some stations with the Main Line.  As Ypodomes.com is informed, tender documents for the second contract regarding Kalamaria Line construction are currently being prepared. The tender will essentially complete the project as it includes the supply and installation of electromechanical equipment (a part of which is included in the present contract) and the procurement of 12 new trains, which will ensure the smooth operation of the Line along with the 18 fully automatic trains of the Main Line. The cost of the contract has not yet been estimated but is expected to exceed 100mn euros. Tender is expected to take place in 2018.

It is noted that there is no concern for the Metro’s smooth operation as far as trains are concerned, as the Lines will be gradually released to operation, making the, temporary, limited availability of the trains viable. Civil engineering works have already been completed at all stations except for Nea Krini, where they will be wrapped up by the end of the year.

 

Nikos Karagiannis-ypodomes.com

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