Article written by SSBM Geneva Professor Dario Silic, PhD
SSBM professor Dario Silić, who teaches Financial Management, had the opportunity to visit Paris and to see the progress of the construction of infrastructure necessary for the Olympic Games to be organized in Paris this summer.
Three years ago, at the inception of the project, SSBM professor Dario Silić visited the site at Porte Maillot and now at the end of the project and he was amazed by the size of this huge infra project close to Arc de Triomphe. The 107 000 m3 of concreate, 300 workers mobilized, 11 000 tons of steel, 3 workings shifts over 32 months of construction are key figures which show how big and challenging this project was.
The Eole RER (Réseau Express Régional) project is a significant undertaking poised to revolutionize transportation infrastructure in Paris, the Île-de-France region of France. Spearheaded by the Société nationale des chemins de fer français (SNCF), the French national railway company. This ambitious initiative aims to enhance connectivity and streamline travel for thousands of commuters.
The focal point of the Eole project is the expansion and modernization of the RER E line, which serves as a critical artery linking the western suburbs of Paris to the heart of the city. The endeavor involves extending the line westward from its current termination point at Haussmann – Saint-Lazare to the suburb of Mantes-la-Jolie, effectively doubling its length. This extension is expected to benefit both suburban residents and city dwellers by providing faster, more efficient transit options.
The works are executed by Bouygues TP, Eiffage and Razel-Bec with a project valued at more than 700 million of euros. The length of tunnel is 6,1 k and it took 24 months of breakthrough with the TBM machine (11.1 meters of diameter) it took 8 to 16 meters of progress by day. The contractors have used for first time in history an innovative technology to transport through the Paris streets and properly treat the mud on river boats.
One of the primary objectives of the Eole RER project is to alleviate congestion on existing transportation routes, especially during peak hours. The extended RER E line is anticipated to disperse commuter traffic, reducing overcrowding and improving the overall commuting experience. This enhanced accessibility is expected to stimulate economic development in the western suburbs, as businesses and residents alike reap the benefits of improved connectivity to the capital.
The project also includes extensive upgrades to existing infrastructure, with a particular focus on modernizing stations and rail facilities. This involves the implementation of state-of-the-art technology, such as computerized signaling systems and energy-efficient trains, to ensure a seamless and sustainable transportation network. Additionally, efforts are being made to enhance the overall passenger experience, with improvements to station amenities, accessibility features, and digital communication systems.
The Eole RER project is a collaborative effort, with various stakeholders playing crucial roles in its execution. Bouygues Travaux Publics, a leading construction company, is actively involved in the development and execution of this ambitious undertaking. Their expertise in large-scale infrastructure projects ensures that the Eole RER initiative progresses efficiently and meets the highest standards of quality and safety. From the observations of professor Dario Silić, it appears that the construction works have been successfully completed and the project is in last phase of equipment so everything should be ready for technical inspection and operation permit in next months which is a condition precedent for opening to be done by June 2024 for summer Olympic games in Paris.
