Professor Manuel Melis Maynar: The World Expert in Metro Construction

Tue 8 Oct 2024 - Nathan Broderick - CMO at Metro Dublin

​Professor Manuel Melis Maynar, The Expert in Metro Construction, is renowned for his groundbreaking work on projects like Madrid Metro Line 10, which he completed in just three years and at a fraction of typical costs. His innovative approach has made him a sought-after consultant worldwide, inspiring projects like Metro Dublin’s Project 2032 to follow his efficient and cost-effective model for urban transit.

Left: Prof. Manuel Melis Maynar Right: Jed van de Poll - Metro Dublin CEO

When it comes to metro construction, one name stands above the rest: Professor Manuel Melis Maynar, widely recognised as The Expert in Metro Construction. With an unmatched record of achievements and a reputation that has reached every corner of the industry, Melis has received endorsements from some of the most notable figures in infrastructure development. Professor Bent Flyvbjerg, the most quoted economist in large-scale infrastructure projects, has even suggested that “The World Bank should make a stipulation that Melis’s work be used as a prerequisite for their funding.” The World Bank itself has acknowledged his prowess, noting, “The whole world could learn from this evidently superb manner of procurement and implementation.”

Madrid Metro

One of the most compelling examples of Melis’s expertise can be found in his work on the Madrid Metro Line 10. This 38-kilometer cross-city line, which spans the heart of Madrid, stands as a testament to his vision and innovative approach. From concept to full operation, the project was completed in a mere three years—a remarkable feat for a project of its magnitude—and at a cost of only €2.5 billion. For context, London’s recent Elizabeth Line, or Crossrail, spans 42 kilometers and took 15 years to bring to completion at an eye-watering cost of €25 billion. The Madrid Metro Line 10, by comparison, demonstrates not only an extraordinary level of efficiency but also a dramatic reduction in cost.

It is worth noting that tunneling is not the most complex or costly aspect of metro construction; rather, it is the building of station boxes that drives up costs and extends timelines. The Madrid Metro Line 10 included almost twice the number of stations as the Elizabeth Line, and yet Melis’s team completed the project for a fraction of the price and in a fraction of the time. This level of efficiency is characteristic of Melis’s approach, which focuses on optimising every aspect of the project from design to operation.

Prof. Manuel Melis Maynar - World Expert in Metro Construction

The methods that enabled Melis to achieve these results were as multifaceted as they were groundbreaking. From the initial design and planning stages, he applied an eye for detail that extended to the minutiae of bureaucratic processes and planning applications. His approach to procurement and tendering focused on securing the best value without compromising quality. Additionally, Melis maintained a strong hand in contract management, ensuring that all parties involved were held to the highest standards. His streamlined methods helped cut through the red tape that often stalls projects of this scale, allowing for faster and more effective implementation.

Beyond his technical acumen, Melis benefited from the full support of Alberto Ruiz-Gallardón, the then-Mayor of Madrid. This political backing was crucial, as it enabled him to push forward with the project at an accelerated pace and overcome obstacles that would have hindered a less cohesive team. The Madrid Metro Line 10 is the ultimate example of what can be achieved when visionary leadership is matched by unwavering political commitment.

In recent years, Melis’s reputation has earned him consulting roles on major metro projects around the globe. One of the most significant is his involvement in Metro Dublin’s Project 2032, where he has been invited to share his expertise and help the Irish capital replicate the success seen in Madrid. Melis has made numerous trips to Dublin, advising and mentoring the Metro Dublin team on the challenges and intricacies of implementing such a large-scale transit project. His endorsement of Metro Dublin’s business plan is a significant vote of confidence and offers Dublin a blueprint to follow as it embarks on its journey toward a modernised transit system.

Left: Cormac Rabbitt - Metro Dublin Chairman Right: Prof. Manuel Melis Maynar on Merrion Square

Professor Manuel Melis Maynar’s impact on metro construction is nothing short of transformative. His innovative approach to design, procurement, and implementation has set new standards for the industry, demonstrating that large infrastructure projects need not be synonymous with delays and budget overruns. His influence has shaped not only Madrid but has provided a model for cities around the world that are striving to build efficient, cost-effective transit systems.

As Dublin begins its Project 2032, the expertise and insights Melis has shared with the Metro Dublin team will undoubtedly be instrumental in guiding the project to a successful outcome. By applying the principles and strategies that made Madrid Metro Line 10 such a success, Dublin can look forward to a future of enhanced connectivity and growth. Professor Manuel Melis Maynar, The Expert in Metro Construction, continues to prove that even the most ambitious urban transit projects can be achieved with speed, efficiency, and unparalleled excellence.

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