Bullet Train to Run Under the Sea

Mumbai: India’s ambitious bullet train project is set to break new ground with a 21-kilometer-long undersea tunnel along the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor. Rail Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw inspected the progress of this groundbreaking infrastructure project on Saturday and expressed satisfaction with the advancements. The undersea tunnel, a first of its kind in India, includes a seven-kilometer section beneath Thane Creek, connecting Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) Station with Shilphata.

Speaking to reporters at Ghanasoli in Navi Mumbai, Vaishnaw stated, “The design of the undersea tunnel has been finalized, and construction is being carried out with extreme precision. The tunnel’s design and technology will allow two trains to run at a speed of 250 km/h. Environmental protection, airflow, and lighting have also been carefully considered.”

He highlighted that construction work on 340 kilometers of the 508-kilometer corridor is progressing rapidly. He also noted significant advancements in bridge construction over rivers and the development of station infrastructure, calling the BKC station an “engineering marvel” with 10 underground levels and seven above-ground floors.

Features of the Undersea Tunnel:

  • Length: 21 kilometers, including a seven-kilometer section under Thane Creek.
  • Technology: Equipped to support high-speed trains traveling at 250 km/h.
  • Significance: India’s first undersea rail tunnel.

Vaishnaw compared the project to Kolkata Metro’s river tunnels but emphasized the much higher speeds of the bullet train. The project is being closely monitored and approved by Japanese experts, ensuring adherence to international standards.

Economic and Urban Impact

Vaishnaw emphasized that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of affordable and efficient transportation for the middle class is gradually taking shape. “The integration of cities along the Mumbai-Ahmedabad route will stimulate urban development and enhance regional economies,” he said.

The corridor’s stations are expected to promote urban growth and significantly reduce travel time, improving productivity for daily commuters. Vaishnaw added, “This is not just a transportation project but a means of integrating the economy. It will boost India’s infrastructure and economic growth.”

Project Overview:

  • Total Length: 508 kilometers.
  • Stations: 12, including Mumbai, Thane, Virar, Boisar, Vapi, Bilimora, Surat, Bharuch, Vadodara, Anand, Ahmedabad, and Sabarmati.
  • Cost: ₹1.08 lakh crore.
  • Highlight: The 21-kilometer-long undersea tunnel beneath Thane Creek.

The Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor marks a significant milestone in India’s journey towards advanced transportation infrastructure, promising to transform regional connectivity and economic integration.

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