Al Wugeisha Completes Dragon Mart Station Excavation
In a significant milestone for Dubai’s infrastructure, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced the completion of a pivotal phase in the Dubai Metro Blue Line project. The tunnel boring machine, Al Wugeisha, has successfully concluded its excavation at Dragon Mart Station, marking the first underground station on this new metro line.
Impressive Tunnel Progress
Al Wugeisha has tunneled 1,200 meters from International City 1 Station to Dragon Mart Station, and preparations are underway for its next mission: a 1,400-meter excavation towards Al Warqaa Station. A dedicated team of 580 engineers, technicians, and workers are laboring tirelessly to maintain the project’s schedule.
A Technological Marvel
During a recent media tour organized by the RTA, journalists witnessed Al Wugeisha in action at a site more than 20 meters below ground. Described as a ‘complete underground factory,’ the machine not only drills but also installs concrete lining rings, drastically reducing construction time. With an excavation speed of 30 meters per day, nearly double the conventional pace, Al Wugeisha’s performance is attributed to its specialized design suited for Dubai’s soil conditions and advanced engineering technologies.
Coordinated Efforts with Multiple Machines
The Blue Line project employs three tunnel boring machines, each tasked with different segments of the underground route. This strategy enables simultaneous construction across various locations, expediting the overall timeline. Before continuing to Al Warqaa, Al Wugeisha will undergo essential maintenance at Dragon Mart Station.
Safety and Minimal Surface Impact
Al Wugeisha is equipped with intelligent sensors and digital monitoring systems to analyze excavation conditions and detect potential risks, ensuring maximum safety standards. The project’s depth minimizes disturbance, with neither noise nor vibrations affecting residents or motorists above.
Innovative Construction Techniques at Dragon Mart Station
Dragon Mart Station, with a built-up area of approximately 39,480 square meters, employs a top-down construction method. This approach, where the station roof is constructed first, enhances safety and accelerates progress. The worksite operates around the clock, with shifts covering 24 hours daily.
Overview of the Dubai Metro Blue Line
The Dubai Metro Blue Line is a flagship RTA project aiming to link the existing Red and Green Lines. Designed to accommodate the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, it features 14 stations, including 3 interchange and 4 underground stations, and aims to serve around a million residents across nine districts.
Aligned with Dubai’s 20-minute city vision, the Blue Line will enable residents to access over 80% of essential services within 20 minutes using public transport. The project is expected to yield AED 56.5 billion in economic and social benefits by 2040, increase property values by up to 25%, and reduce road congestion by 20%.
