The Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project has achieved a significant milestone with the completion of the Vikhroli shaft, a key component in constructing the 21-kilometre-long tunnel, which includes India's first undersea passage. This development marks a crucial step forward in the project, enabling the commencement of tunnelling work towards Bandra Kurla Complex and Ghansoli. The National High Speed Rail Corporation Ltd (NHSRCL) officials confirmed the project's progress, highlighting the meticulous planning and execution to minimise environmental and community impact. This ambitious project promises to revolutionise high-speed rail connectivity between Mumbai and Ahmedabad, enhancing economic and social integration.
The Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project, a monumental infrastructure venture, has reached an essential phase with the completion of the Vikhroli shaft, marking a significant step towards constructing the 21-kilometre-long tunnel. This tunnel is noteworthy for incorporating India's first 7-kilometre undersea section, designed to revolutionise high-speed rail connectivity between Mumbai and Ahmedabad.
Officials from the National High Speed Rail Corporation Ltd (NHSRCL) have reported the successful completion of shaft piling at Vikhroli, paving the way for the lowering of two critical tunnel boring machines. These machines are set to excavate tunnels towards Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) and Ghansoli, facilitating the construction of underground stations at BKC and Shilphata near Kalyan.
The project has seen construction efforts across five key locations, with significant progress at each site. The Mumbai HSR station site, known as Shaft 1, has reached a depth of 36 metres with secant piling fully completed. Similar achievements have been reported at the Vikhroli shaft, also reaching a depth of 36 metres. Additionally, the Sawli shaft near Ghansoli is making strides with a 39-metre depth excavation already in progress.
Adopting the New Australian Tunnelling Method (NATM), the project faces unique challenges, especially in densely populated areas where controlled blasting is necessary. These operations are conducted with strict adherence to environmental regulations to minimise noise and air pollution, ensuring minimal disruption to the surrounding communities. The meticulous disposal of excavated materials is closely monitored under the guidance of the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB), with every removal trip tracked via GPS for compliance.
The tunnel, designed as a single tube to accommodate dual tracks for both directions, is an engineering marvel. It will include 39 equipment rooms across 37 locations to support the infrastructure. With varying depths from 25 to 57 metres below ground, the tunnel's deepest point will plunge to 114 metres below Parsik Hill near Shilphata, illustrating the project's ambitious scope.
In conclusion, the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project's latest achievement with the Vikhroli shaft's completion signifies a leap forward in India's quest for high-speed rail innovation. This project not only exemplifies engineering excellence but also promises to enhance connectivity and economic growth between two of India's major cities.
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