The MRT alignment is expected to contribute significantly to Taiwan's urban transportation network - Photo: Gamuda

The Department of Rapid Transit Systems in New Taipei City awarded the project on October 22 to an unincorporated joint venture between three parties- Gamuda (75 per cent) and two Taiwan-based companies- MiTAC IT Corp (15 per cent) and Dong Pi Co Limited (10 per cent). With the vast majority share within the venture, Gamuda’s share of the contract value is $735.5 million.

The project is estimated to be completed within seven years, and will include 5.78km of elevated viaducts and track, six above-ground stations, along with system works such as rolling stock, power supply, platform screen doors, communication, signalling, and central monitoring systems, automatic fare collection mechanisms, and depot maintenance equipment.

The joint venture is obligated to undertake an already determined additional works valued at $2.5 billion, comprising Xizhi Donghu Line Maintenance Depot and two extension lines of the Keelung and Minsheng MRT lines. Gamuda’s 75 per cent share of the additional works' contract value will be approximately $1.86 billion. These additional works, which would be separate contracts, are expected to be awarded before the end of the Xizhi Donghu MRT contract. The total combined project value with the additional works would be approximately $3.47 billion.

A sketch of the Xizhi Donghu MRT - Photo: Gamuda

"This latest project is Gamuda’s biggest win since we entered the Taiwanese market two decades ago. This win showcases the group’s consistent ability to secure high-value projects in competitive international markets. It reflects our strong track record and the trust that Taiwanese authorities have placed in our expertise and delivery capabilities," said a statment from Gamuda.

The project is part of a substantial infrastructure initiative currently underway in New Taipei City. The MRT is crucial in meeting the ever-growing demands of the New Taipei urban populace.

Gamuda's success in Taiwan has been built on a strong foundation, beginning with the award-winning Kaohsiung MRT Orange Line in 2008. Since then, the company has been pivotal in shaping the island's modern transportation landscape, including the $489 million Taoyuan City Underground Railway Project in 2022 and the $563 million Kaohsiung MRT Metropolitan Yellow Line in 2023.

Further demonstrating its diverse capabilities, the group successfully completed and handed over the Guantang Marine Bridge in October last year. The company is also delivering the Taipei Port Seawall and the 161kV Songshu to Guanfeng Underground Transmission Line.

In June 2024, Gamuda was recognised by Institutional Investor Research, a global independent research organisation, as one of the top three companies in Asia in the field of construction and infrastructure development (excluding Japan). For nearly three decades, Gamuda Land, a member of the group, has developed numerous modern urban areas and thriving communities in various countries.

Present in Vietnam since 2007, Gamuda Land Vietnam has built two green urban areas: Gamuda City in Hanoi and Celadon City in Ho Chi Minh City. To date, Gamuda Land has expanded its portfolio to seven projects in Vietnam.