THIRTY members of Jabatan Kerja Raya (JKR) Structural Communities of Practice (CoP) visited Bandar Malaysia North (BMN) MRT Station construction site on 2 October 2019.

The objectives of the visit were to provide exposure on underground tunneling construction techniques and usage of precast tunnel segment as well as to acquire knowledge on the technology used in Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) and the underground building structure design using in-situ and precast methods, to the members of the Structural CoP.  They are individuals in JKR who have interests in learning as well as sharing their insights and experiences in the field of structural engineering.

Held at Bandar Malaysia MRT Information Centre, the programme began with a welcome remark by Malaysia Rapid Transit Corporation Sdn Bhd (MRT Corp) Strategic Communications and Stakeholder Relations Junior Executive, Encik Maharezan Mahadzir.

A presentation on tunneling, progress and techniques by MRT Corp Underground Tunnel Director, Mr. Blaise Mark Pierce ensued. His presentation covered among others, the MRT Sungai Buloh – Serdang – Putrajaya Line underground tunnel progress, an overview of the tunneling techniques and technology used, TBM types, assembly, launching and excavation, impact on existing development due to tunnel construction as well as precast and segment production.

The next presentation was on the underground stations, which was delivered by MRT Corp Underground Station Director, Mr. Danny Lim Kong Kit. He touched on the site progress, layout and sections, geographical profiles and the tops risks associated with underground station.

A safety briefing was given by MMC Gamuda KVMRT (T) Sdn Bhd Assistant Safety Manager, Encik Norazhar Abd Rahman before the participants proceeded to the BMN MRT Station construction site.

The visit ended with a presentation of a token of appreciation from Blaise to JKR Structural CoP Patron, Ir. Mohd Noor Azudin Mansor, which was followed by a group photo.