India’s ambitious 21 km underground and undersea tunnel for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project is underway. Hon’ble Minister of Railways, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, recently inspected the tunnel’s progress. This project includes 16 km of TBM tunneling, 5 km of NATM and 7 km undersea tunneling. Key infrastructure like shafts and portals are actively being worked on.
Introduction of the Project:
- India’s first undersea tunnel for the Bullet Train between Mumbai’s Bandra-Kurla Complex and Shilphata, spanning 21 kilometers, is under construction.
- The tunnel is part of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (Bullet Train) project, with work underway through Tunnel Boring Machines (TBM) and the New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM).
Key Developments:
- TBM & NATM Excavation: 16 km of the tunnel is being excavated using TBM, while 5 km will be done using NATM, including 7 km undersea at Thane creek.
- ADIT Completion: The ADIT tunnel, completed in May 2024, is 394 meters long and provides additional access points for tunneling.
- Shaft Construction: Shafts at strategic locations, such as Vikhroli, Savli, and Shilphata, support the tunneling process, with different depths depending on the site.
Technological Integration and Monitoring:
- Geotechnical instruments like inclinometers, vibration monitors, and tilt meters are in place for real-time monitoring of excavation safety, surrounding structures, and geotechnical integrity.
- Ventilation systems ensure safe working conditions within the tunnel, while excavated materials are disposed of according to state guidelines.
Casting Yard at Mahape:
The casting yard in Mahape, Thane, is responsible for producing 77,000 tunnel lining segments for the TBM portion. Using high-strength M70 concrete and modern machinery, the facility ensures quality control in the production process.
Precautionary Measures and Safety:
- Continuous monitoring ensures that construction activities do not affect nearby buildings or structures.
- Safety protocols and efficient waste disposal methods are being followed to ensure smooth operations.
- With rapid progress and attention to safety, the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train’s underground and undersea tunnel construction is poised to revolutionize India’s transportation infrastructure.
- The meticulous planning and execution of the tunneling works will help meet project timelines and safety standards.
Conclusion:
The Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train tunnel project is advancing with significant milestones in shaft construction, tunneling, and casting. By leveraging advanced technologies and adhering to safety protocols, India is making remarkable strides towards establishing world-class high-speed rail infrastructure that will improve connectivity and set new standards in tunnel construction.
Source: NHSRCL – Press Release | Images Credit: Afcons
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