Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet train corridor: 5 km tunnel excavation complete — why it’s a key step toward operations

Manthan K Mehta / TNN / Updated: Apr 5, 2026, 15:31 IST

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Tunnel work hits key milestone

Work on the 21-km underground tunnel has entered a crucial phase, with 5 km of the NATM-built section fully excavated. Teams have now moved to drainage, waterproofing, reinforcement and final lining works, marking steady progress in tunnel construction.

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Post-excavation works gather pace

Following excavation, drainage systems are being installed using casting gantries, while waterproofing membranes are laid through specialised equipment. Reinforcement bar cages and concrete lining gantries are being deployed for permanent tunnel structure.

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Corridor construction advances steadily

Across the corridor, 343 km of viaduct and 434 km of pier work have been completed. In addition, 17 river bridges, 5 PSC bridges and 13 steel bridges are ready, reflecting consistent progress on multiple fronts.

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Mountain tunnels see breakthroughs

Breakthrough has been achieved in 2 of the 7 mountain tunnels along the route. Work on remaining tunnels continues as part of the broader push to complete critical infrastructure components of the high-speed rail corridor.

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Noise barriers and track base progress

Over 5.6 lakh noise barriers have been installed across 280 km. Alongside this, 360 track km (180 route km) of reinforced concrete track bed has been completed, supporting future rail system installation.

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Overhead infrastructure expands

More than 6,900 overhead equipment (OHE) masts have been installed across 159 route km. This marks significant progress in preparing the corridor for electrification and operational systems.

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BKC station nears excavation completion

At the BKC underground station, 91% excavation is complete. The basement slab at Level-4 is fully done, while base slab casting has begun, indicating steady advancement in station construction.

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Stations and project readiness on track

Out of 12 stations, foundation work is complete at 8, including Vapi, Surat and Ahmedabad. Land acquisition is fully done at 1,389.5 hectares, all clearances are in place, and 1,651 utilities have been shifted.

TOI