NHSRCL has achieved a construction milestone with the breakthrough of a 2.7 km tunnel in the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train Corridor. This development is a part of a 21 km long tunnel between Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) and Shilphata using advanced techniques like TBM and NATM. This showcases the commitment of the company towards building complex subterranean infrastructure to improve safety and the operational efficiency.
Introduction:
In a major step towards developing advanced infrastructure, NHSRCL has successfully completed a tunnel breakthrough of a 2.7 km segment. This construction achievement is a part of a 21 km long tunnel planned between the Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) and Shilphata. The tunneling is completed with the use of an advanced technique named New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM). This advancement showcases the steady progress towards the readiness of India’s first high-speed rail corridor between Mumbai and Ahmedabad.
Tunnel Project Overview:
- Total length of tunnel: 21 km (including 7 km undersea).
- Section breakdown:
- 5 km: NATM method (Shilphata–Ghansoli).
- 16 km: TBM method (BKC–Ghansoli).
- Includes a 7 km undersea tunnel under Thane Creek.
Construction Progress:
To boost tunnelling in the NATM section between Shilphata and Ghansoli, an Additionally Driven Intermediate Tunnel (ADIT) was constructed, allowing simultaneous excavation from both ends. This strategic approach has significantly accelerated progress, with approximately 1.62 km excavated from the Shilphata side and a total of 4.3 km completed so far.
Construction Methodology:
- New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM)
- Implemented on a geologically diverse 5 km section for rapid adaptability.
- Uses controlled sequential excavation with shotcrete lining.
- Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs)
- Three giant TBMs will carve the 16 km balance, including the 7 km creek crossing.
- Each 13 m-diameter machine is designed to handle basalt, alluvium and soft marine clay.
- Additionally Driven Intermediate Tunnel (ADIT)
- A purpose-built 420 m access adit accelerates face-to-face excavation, slashing overall NATM cycle time.
- A purpose-built 420 m access adit accelerates face-to-face excavation, slashing overall NATM cycle time.
Safety and Monitoring Measures:
A multilayer instrumentation are used to not disturb the adjoint areas near the construction sites, these instruments include:
- Ground-settlement markers track surface movement in real time.
- Piezometers measure pore-water pressure, critical near the creek.
- Inclinometers detect lateral ground shifts.
- Strain gauges log lining stresses.
- Biometric access control guarantees only certified personnel enter pressurised headings.
These safety measures are necessary for ensuring the proper construction can take place without any life hazards and these improve the life span of the infrastructure.
Significance of the Breakthrough:
- The successful tunnel breakthrough is a major kick to start the construction of the 21 km long tunnel.
- This achievement not only shows the rapid pace of the project but also the strategic planning and capabilities of the team to complete the complex infrastructure work.
- This project aligns with the national goal of advancing urban mobility infrastructure and reflects how workforce skills are developing.
Conclusion:
NHSRCL has achieved a milestone with the breakthrough of a 2.7 km tunnel, a step towards better urban infrastructure. This achievement aligns with the INdida’s goal of having smart, fast and advanced rail infrastructure. With the strategy of the undersea tunnel, it marks a benchmark for the country to build a sustainable infrastructure.
Source: NHSRCL – Press Release | Image Credit: NHSRCL
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