Construction on a key segment of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail corridor has reached a significant milestone, with 5 kilometers of the 21-kilometer underground tunnel completed between Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) and Shilphata. The National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL) confirmed that this section, spanning Ghansoli to Shilphata, has been excavated using the New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM), marking an important phase in India’s first bullet train project.
Following the completion of excavation, work inside the tunnel has shifted to structural and safety enhancements. NHSRCL officials noted that a modern drainage system is being installed to manage potential water leakage. Drainage casting gantries are employed to collect and redirect water efficiently, while specialised waterproofing membranes ensure the tunnel remains fully watertight.
Reinforcement bars are being fabricated and assembled to provide the tunnel with structural strength, creating a solid foundation for the final concrete lining. The lining gantry then applies the final concrete layer, offering both stability and a smooth interior surface for the tunnel. These steps are crucial for long-term durability and operational safety of the underground corridor.
“The 5-kilometer excavation milestone is a key achievement, and subsequent works, including drainage, waterproofing, reinforcement, and final lining, are progressing swiftly,” an NHSRCL spokesperson said.
Once completed, the tunnel between BKC and Shilphata will form a vital part of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail, significantly reducing travel time and improving connectivity along the Maharashtra section. The ongoing work reflects the careful integration of modern tunneling techniques and robust engineering standards to ensure both efficiency and safety for the nation’s flagship bullet train project.
This milestone demonstrates tangible progress on India’s ambitious high-speed rail initiative, combining advanced tunneling methods with cutting-edge infrastructure to transform intercity travel.
Source: Navbharat Times
