As India embarks on a transformative journey towards high-speed rail travel, the ambitious Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project has achieved a significant milestone. The foundation work for eight Bullet Train stations in Gujarat has been completed. Earlier in July, Minister of Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed that the government has successfully acquired the entire land required for the project, totaling 1,389.5 hectares. The progress has been impressive. As of now, 350 kilometers of pier foundations, 316 kilometers of pier constructions, 221 kilometers of girder casting, and 190 kilometers of girder launching have been completed. Furthermore, construction has begun on a crucial 21-kilometer undersea tunnel, which is set to enhance the project’s feasibility and connectivity.
Progress on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train Project
The National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL), overseeing the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project, has been working towards ensuring its success. This month, NHSRCL reported significant advancements, including the ongoing installation of noise barriers along the corridor. These barriers, standing at 2 meters high and weighing approximately 830-840 kg each, are designed to mitigate noise pollution generated during train operations. By effectively reflecting and distributing the aerodynamic sound produced by the trains, they aim to minimize the impact on nearby communities.
Land Acquisition and Construction Milestones
The Narmada River Bridge: A Structural Marvel
A key feature of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project is the construction of a 1.4-kilometer bridge over the Narmada River in Gujarat, which is rapidly advancing. This bridge will be the longest river bridge within the project’s Gujarat section, built on deep well foundations designed to support heavy structures in challenging terrains. With 25 well foundations, some reaching depths exceeding 70 meters, this bridge exemplifies engineering excellence.
Remarkably, the deepest well extends to 77.11 meters, and four of these foundations will surpass the height of the Qutub Minar, which stands at 72.5 meters. As these developments unfold, the bullet train project stands as a beacon of progress, promising to revolutionize transportation in India while fostering economic growth and technological innovation.