Intro
MEIL Enters Nuclear Sector With 7,250 Cubic Metre Concrete Achievement, Showcasing Engineering Excellence And Precision Execution Capabilities
Karwar
Megha Engineering and Infrastructures Limited (MEIL) has successfully completed the largest-ever monolithic concrete pouring work in the history of Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) for the Kaiga Atomic Power Plant’s Units 5 and 6 Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR) project.
The achievement marks MEIL’s entry into the nuclear sector and is considered a major milestone for the company. The massive operation involved continuous pouring of around 7,250 cubic metres of concrete with a reinforcement steel density of 360 kilograms per cubic metre. The successful completion of the project reflects the company’s engineering expertise, precision planning, and execution capabilities.
To ensure quality and uninterrupted progress, MEIL deployed advanced infrastructure and technology at the project site. A temperature-controlled concrete production facility with a capacity of 360 cubic metres per hour was established. The concrete temperature was maintained at 19 degrees Celsius, while high-capacity concrete pumps capable of handling 340 cubic metres per hour were installed.
A dedicated ice production unit with a capacity of 510 tonnes per day and an ice storage facility of 400 metric tonnes were created to control the temperature of the concrete mix. The company also arranged storage facilities for 2,600 metric tonnes of cement and fly ash, ensuring uninterrupted availability of materials throughout the operation.
The geographical conditions of Kaiga, known for dense forests and heavy rainfall, presented significant challenges. To overcome weather-related difficulties, MEIL installed a 75-metre diameter rain protection system using advanced technology. The system helped protect workers and maintain concrete quality despite heavy rain and strong winds.
Strict quality assurance and quality control measures were followed in accordance with nuclear sector regulations. Hundreds of engineers, supervisors, quality experts, technicians, and skilled workers worked in multiple shifts to complete the project successfully.
The company stated that the achievement represents a significant contribution to India’s clean energy mission and strengthens its capability to undertake future large-scale nuclear infrastructure projects. The Kaiga Units 5 and 6 project is expected to support India’s efforts towards expanding indigenous nuclear power generation.