Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train: Electrification of train corridor begins with steel mast installation between Surat and Bilimora station

The electrification process for the ambitious Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train corridor has officially commenced. The National High-Speed Rail Corporation Ltd. (NHSRCL) announced the installation of the first two steel masts on the viaduct at a height of 14 meters, situated between the Surat and Bilimora Bullet Train Stations in Gujarat.

Massive Infrastructure: Over 20,000 Steel Masts

As part of the project, over 20,000 steel masts, ranging from 9.5 to 14.5 meters in height, will be erected along the corridor. These masts are integral to supporting the Overhead Equipment (OHE) system, which includes overhead wires, earthing systems, fittings and associated accessories.

This system will form the complete 2×25 kV overhead traction system, designed specifically for the high-speed Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (MAHSR) corridor. Notably, the masts adhere to Japanese design standards and specifications but are manufactured in India, promoting the ‘Make in India’ initiative.

Completion of a Landmark PSC Bridge

On January 13, 2025, NHSRCL completed the construction of a 210-meter-long pre-stressed concrete (PSC) bridge over National Highway-48 at Dabhan village near Nadiad in Kheda district, Gujarat. This milestone, achieved on January 9, 2025, is situated between the Anand and Ahmedabad Bullet Train Stations.

Bridge Highlights:

• Constructed using the Balanced Cantilever Method, suitable for larger spans.
• Features 72 precast segments.
• Comprises four spans with configurations of 40 meters + 65 meters + 65 meters + 40 meters.

Advancements in the High-Speed Rail Project

The Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail project has achieved significant progress across various components:

• Viaduct Work: 253 kilometres completed.
• Girder Casting: 290 kilometres finished.
• Pier Construction: 358 kilometres achieved.
• River and Steel Bridges: Completed over 13 rivers and five steel bridges.
• Noise Barriers: Installed over approximately 112 kilometres.
• Track Construction: Initiated at multiple locations in Gujarat.

Tunneling Work Underway: 

A major tunnel spanning 21 kilometres is currently under construction between Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) and Thane in Maharashtra.

Mountain Tunnels in Maharashtra and Gujarat:

• Seven mountain tunnels are being developed in Maharashtra’s Palghar district using the New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM).
• One mountain tunnel has been completed in Valsad district, Gujarat.

The Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (MAHSR) project will connect the business hubs of Mumbai, Surat, Vadodara, and Ahmedabad—states with high growth rates. According to a feasibility study conducted by JICA, the project’s Economic Internal Rate of Return (EIRR) is estimated at 11.8 per cent, underlining its potential for significant economic benefits.

(With ANI inputs)