Mumbai's Vaitarna River Railway Bridges to be Replaced Under Major Quadrupling Project
In a significant infrastructure development for Mumbai's railway network, an ageing railway bridge over the Vaitarna river is set to be replaced by two modern bridges as part of the ambitious Virar-Dahanu Road quadrupling project. This strategic upgrade aims to transform rail operations in the region, addressing long-standing challenges in train management and safety.
New Bridges to Enhance Rail Segregation and Punctuality
The project involves the construction of two new bridges: Bridge 92, measuring 628 meters, is scheduled for commissioning next month, while Bridge 93, spanning 515 meters, is expected to open in March 2027. These bridges are specifically designed to carry four broad-gauge tracks with a robust 25-tonne axle load capacity. A key benefit of this design is the segregation of suburban services from long-distance mail and express trains, which is anticipated to significantly improve punctuality and operational safety across the network.
Engineering Challenges and Innovative Solutions
Given the challenging geological conditions in the Vaitarna river basin, which includes black cotton soil and clay, the foundations for the bridges are being taken to depths ranging from 20 meters to 32 meters to ensure long-term stability. This meticulous approach underscores the project's commitment to durability and resilience against environmental factors.
Officials have highlighted the use of several technological innovations at the Vaitarna crossing to overcome these challenges. These include:
- Rail-based roll-on/roll-off trolleys for efficient material movement in marshy terrain.
- Centralised precast casting yards with trolley-based erection of heavy girders.
- Prefabricated vertical drains to accelerate soil consolidation.
- Custom-designed pile boring gantries for deep foundations.
Project Progress and Statutory Approvals
The Rs 3,578-crore quadrupling project is being implemented under the Mumbai Urban Transport Project phase-3 and executed by the Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation (MRVC). According to Sunil Udasi, chief public relations officer of MRVC, the project has achieved 47% completion to date. All major statutory approvals, including land acquisition and environmental and forest clearances, have been secured, paving the way for uninterrupted progress.
Current activities are in full swing, with over 88% of earthwork completed and more than 50 bridges and road underbridges already built. Station redevelopment is actively progressing at key locations, including Virar, Vaitarna, Saphale, Kelve Road, Palghar, Umroli, Boisar, Vangaon, and Dahanu Road. This comprehensive effort reflects a holistic approach to upgrading Mumbai's rail infrastructure, ensuring enhanced connectivity and efficiency for commuters and freight services alike.
