The Bullet train project achieved another milestone with the completion of the 80-meter Vishwamitri River bridge in Vadodara, Gujarat. This is the 17th out of 21 planned river bridges in the state, constructed using advanced technologies and strategic planning. This development showcases the NHSRCL’s steady effort towards construction of the MAHSR corridor.
Introduction:
The Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (MAHSR) project marks a benchmark with the completion of the 80-meter-long bridge over the Vishwamitri River in Vadodara district, Gujarat. This is the 17th river bridge completed out of the planned 21 in the state, and showcases steady development on India’s first bullet train corridor.
The bridge is located adjacent to the Vadodara–Surat main line of Western Railways, this bridge is a vital link in Vadodara, considered one of the busiest cities in Gujarat. Its planned position and challenging urban surroundings required meticulous strategy and seamless coordination with the Vadodara Municipal Corporation and other local authorities.
Key Features of the Vishwamitri River Bridge:
- Length: 80 meters
- Span Configuration: Two spans of 40 meters each, built using the Span-by-Span (SBS) method
- Pier Height: 26 to 29.5 meters
- Pier Design: Three circular piers, each 5.5 meters in diameter
- Foundation: Each pier rests on 12 piles of 1.8 meters diameter, with lengths up to 53 meters
- Location Proximity: Approximately 3 km from Vadodara Bullet Train Station
Urban Construction Challenges and Coordination:
Building in the congested area of Vadodara meant managing limited working space, reducing disruption to existing infrastructure, and adhering to strict timelines. The bridge alignment passes through nine different Vishwamitri River crossings within and around Vadodara, showcasing the river’s importance along the route.
Three crossings out of nine crossings have already been completed besides the main bridge and while construction is underway remaining ones.
Other Completed River Bridges in Vadodara District:
The Dhadhar River bridge, measuring 120 meters, is another major achievement in the district, highlighting the pace and scale of high-speed rail infrastructure development in Gujarat.
Overall River Bridge Status in Gujarat:
The Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train corridor will feature 25 river bridges, with 21 in Gujarat and 4 in Maharashtra.
So far, 17 river bridges have been completed in Gujarat, including those on:
- Valsad District: Par, Auranga, Kolak, Darotha, Daman Ganga
- Navsari District: Purna, Mindhola, Ambika, Venganiya, Kaveri, Kharera
- Kheda District: Mohar, Vatrak, Meshwa
- Surat District: Kim
- Vadodara District: Dhadhar, Vishwamitri
Significance for the Bullet Train Project:
The Vishwamitri bridge is more than just a structural link, it is an engineering achievement that blends modern construction techniques with complex urban integration. It forms part of the high-speed alignment designed to minimise travel time between Mumbai and Ahmedabad to around two hours, enhancing regional connectivity and economic growth.
Conclusion:
The completion of the Vishwamitri River bridge is a significant achievement for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project. Completing 17 of Gujarat’s 21 planned river bridges highlights precise engineering, proper coordination and effort towards timely execution. It showcases the NHSRCL’s commitment towards making the dream of high-speed rail travel into a reality.
Source: NHSRCL – Press Release | Images Credit: NHSRCL
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