Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train Corridor Reaches Key Tunnel Milestone
The ambitious Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project has achieved a significant breakthrough in its underground construction phase. Excavation of 5 kilometers of the 21-kilometer tunnel, built using the New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM), is now fully complete. This marks a pivotal step forward in the development of India's first high-speed rail corridor, bringing operations closer to reality.
Post-Excavation Works Gain Momentum
Following the successful excavation, construction teams have swiftly transitioned to critical post-excavation activities. Drainage systems are being meticulously installed using advanced casting gantries, while specialized equipment is deploying waterproofing membranes to ensure long-term structural integrity. Reinforcement bar cages and concrete lining gantries are actively being deployed to create the permanent tunnel structure, laying the foundation for safe and efficient rail operations.
Steady Progress Across Multiple Fronts
The corridor's construction is advancing consistently on various fronts. Impressively, 343 kilometers of viaduct and 434 kilometers of pier work have been completed. In addition, 17 river bridges, 5 Pre-Stressed Concrete (PSC) bridges, and 13 steel bridges are now ready, demonstrating comprehensive infrastructure development. Breakthroughs have been achieved in 2 of the 7 mountain tunnels along the route, with work continuing on the remaining tunnels to complete these essential components.
Noise Barriers and Track Base Installation
To mitigate environmental impact, over 560,000 noise barriers have been installed across 280 kilometers of the corridor. Concurrently, 360 track kilometers (equivalent to 180 route kilometers) of reinforced concrete track bed have been completed. This robust foundation is crucial for supporting the future installation of the rail system, ensuring stability and performance at high speeds.
Electrification and Station Construction Advance
Significant progress is also evident in overhead infrastructure, with more than 6,900 Overhead Equipment (OHE) masts installed across 159 route kilometers. This marks a major step in preparing the corridor for electrification and operational systems. At the Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) underground station, excavation is 91% complete, with the basement slab at Level-4 fully finished and base slab casting underway, indicating steady advancement in station construction.
Project Readiness and Land Acquisition
The project is on track with strong readiness indicators. Foundation work is complete at 8 out of 12 stations, including key locations like Vapi, Surat, and Ahmedabad. Land acquisition has been fully secured across 1,389.5 hectares, all necessary clearances are in place, and 1,651 utilities have been successfully shifted to accommodate the corridor. These achievements underscore the project's comprehensive planning and execution.
This progress highlights India's commitment to modernizing its transportation infrastructure, with the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train corridor poised to revolutionize inter-city travel upon completion.
