The Klang Valley Mass Rapid Transit (KVMRT) system is one of Malaysia’s largest infrastructure projects involving the construction of three new MRT lines in the Greater Kuala Lumpur/Klang Valley region.
The Putrajaya Line (or MRT Line 2) on the Sungai Buloh-Serdang-Putrajaya link is the second to be built. This complex and challenging project comprises 52.2 kilometres (32 miles) of track, 13.5 kilometres (eight miles) of which will be underground. A total of 37 stations will be built, 26 will be elevated and 11 underground. Project owner and ultimate client, MRT Corp wanted to increase productivity and improve efficiencies in the delivery of MRT Line 2, which started in 2017 and is worth US$7.8 billion.
Drawing on our experience in addressing key issues during the construction of Line 1, we had an in-depth appreciation of local challenges. To further demonstrate our project-specific and longer-term commitments to Malaysia’s infrastructure industry we invited our in-house urban rail and transit projects experts from Singapore and Hong Kong to collaborate and bring their extensive and unparalleled experience to the scheme.
We co-located with MMC-Gamuda, the immediate client, to maintain a project office. This arrangement, although uncommon, was effective in enhancing communication and collaboration among all team members. At this co-located space, we also set up a dedicated BIM team for the project, led by experienced professionals in the field.
We supported the client’s interest to pioneer the use of cloud-based collaboration on a common data environment. As the Lead Design Consultant for the underground section, our team strategically deployed BIM and 3D modelling from the early stages. Facilitated by the AECOM team, the BIM process has reduced the number of design conflicts and avoided costly rectification works. As an example, an average of 1,000 conflicts and clashes have been identified for each site through this platform.
MRT Corp is the first infrastructure developer in Asia to achieve accreditation for its adoption of BIM Level 2 on the MRT Line 2 in the Lloyd’s Register. The MRT Line 2 also won the BIM Advancements in Rail and Transit Award at Bentley’s 2017 Be Inspired Awards, and two Asia Geospatial Excellence Awards 2017, including one to AECOM for Digital Engineering.
This collaborative, digital-led approach enabled us to work closely with the client in decision-making throughout the project lifecycle enhancing coordination, collaboration, accuracy and efficiency, and ultimately quality. As a result, Malaysia’s infrastructure industry is building a strong reputation for innovation and quality, which will be a positive force in the nation and Asia for the future.