NDRC Intelligent Traffic Systems

The ITS2020 Project aims to expand the ITS infrastructure and improve the performance of key road networks through improved mobility, safety, traffic control operations, and provision of traveler information for all road users in Dubai. The project involves an expansion of traffic CCTV monitoring, radar detection, and full matrix dynamic message sign sub-systems in addition to a complete Ethernet-based Fiber Optic communication network and an Integrated Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS). The installation used the directional drilling technique with launching and receiving shafts at both ends. 

As the project required the construction of NDRC 5.2 m below the Red Line metro tracks (on the ground towards the end of the line), instrumentation was planned for the safety monitoring of structures and risk management of construction works, even though the shaft excavation was only up to 2.5 m below the ground level. The tunneling length was 43 m.

Encardio-rite’s sister concern, Encardio-rite Geosystems LLC in UAE, was instructed by the Road and Transport Authority (RTA-Owner of Metro structure) and China State Construction Engineering Corporation Ltd. to provide instrumentation and monitoring program during NDRC to assess the impact on adjacent structures including the Dubai Red Line metro pier as per M/s RTA code of practice.

Scope of services included

• Pre-construction building condition survey of metro piers and its viaduct
• Supply of geotechnical instruments, precise survey instruments 
• Installation of geotechnical instruments, including subsurface instruments 
• Manual and automatic monitoring
• Precise levelling 
• Setting up an online web-based data management system (WDMS) and maintenance during the contract period
• Daily & weekly reporting with evaluation & Interpretation

The instruments used included:

• Instruments for Metro track monitoring
• An automatic vibration sensor was installed near the metro curb to monitor any vibration caused by nearby construction works. 
• Building settlement points Installed on parapet near the metro track to monitor any settlement caused by nearby construction works

Instruments for surface/sub-surface monitoring near construction works

• Borehole extensometer Installed to monitor settlement in the ground along the tunnel alignment
• Surface settlement points Installed in the soil to monitor surface settlement along the tunnel alignment

The installation and monitoring of the instruments mentioned above were executed successfully by an experienced and proficient I&M team at Encardio-rite.