Geotechnical feasibility of an underground metro in Kinshasa: Comparative analysis with the New Delhi Metro

Kinshasa's rapid urban growth, underlain by heterogeneous alluvial and residual soils with shallow groundwater, poses significant challenges for underground metro construction. Drawing on New Delhi's experience—where pressurized tunneling, reinforced diaphragm walls, grouting techniques and dewatering systems addressed variable ground conditions and high water tables—this study evaluates the applicability of these methods to Kinshasa. Detailed comparison reveals that techniques such as earth-pressure-balance tunneling and targeted soil stabilization can accommodate Kinshasa's sandy loam and clayey layers, provided site-specific adjustments in support pressures and grout formulations. Key findings indicate potential risks from surface settlements, informal settlements, and seasonal water-level fluctuations, which require enhanced geotechnical investigations and adaptive construction strategies. The analysis concludes that, with comprehensive subsurface characterization and tailored engineering solutions, a subterranean metro in Kinshasa is technically feasible and can significantly improve urban mobility.