How Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train Project is Laying a Strong Foundation for India’s Future High-Speed Rail Network
Presently, the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High Speed Rail (MAHSR) Project (508 km) is under execution with technical and financial assistance from Government of Japan. The MAHSR project is planned and constructed on a elevated viaduct. The design for stations on the corridor provides for security measures like controlled entry points, baggage scanners, DFMDs (Door Frame Metal Detectors), CCTV cameras etc.
The experience and technical capabilities being developed through the MAHSR project, particularly in track construction, advanced signalling, Rolling Stock manufacturing & maintenance, project management etc. are expected to provide a strong foundation for future high-speed rail corridors in the country. With gain of such expertise, India will strengthen its position for planning and decision making in HSR Sector.
Indigenization & Capacity Building
• Long-span steel truss girders are being fabricated in Indian workshops, supported by analytical modelling and field measurements to strengthen domestic HSR design capability.
• Heavy construction machinery used for full-span launching has been indigenised and is now being manufactured in India.
• Most slab track materials and specialized track machines are being developed and produced by Indian manufacturers, boosting domestic manufacturing capability.
• Design variations and detail regarding dynamic analysis are being handled by Indian agencies in collaboration with IITs, with advanced dynamic analysis tools and design charts developed to build long-term HSR expertise.
Innovation
• Full-span launching method adopted for the first time in India for launching 40 m prestressed box girders (~1000 MT), enabling faster launching within 16 hours.
• Indigenous noise barriers being installed along the elevated corridor to minimise noise for nearby residents.
• Underground station is being constructed with provision for a future 90 m high building on the same foundation.
• Indigenously developed Rail Turnover Prevention Device (RTPD) introduced to enhance safety during derailments.
Training
• Indian Engineers and Skilled workers (approx. 1000 nos.) have been trained for Japanese methodology and presently, track works are being executed under their supervision.
• A Special Track training facility has been created at Surat for training and regular refresher courses.
Stations
• HSR stations are being designed as city gateways reflecting local identity, with advanced security features such as controlled entry points, baggage scanners, Door Frame Metal Detectors (DFMDs) and Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) surveillance.
• Safety-focused design includes anti-vibration measures, wind-pressure management in station roofs and provisions like anti-vibration hangers, clamps and bolting plates integrated during construction.
• Passenger convenience is ensured through ample parking, drop-off areas and seamless multimodal connectivity with coordinated city master planning.
• Sustainable and energy-efficient features aligned with Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) Platinum standards.
Progress of Mumbai-Ahmedabad High Speed Rail Project
The Mumbai-Ahmedabad High Speed Rail (MAHSR) Project (508 km) is passing through the States of Gujarat, Maharashtra and Union Territory of Dadra & Nagar Haveli with 12 stations planned at Mumbai, Thane, Virar, Boisar, Vapi, Billimora, Surat, Bharuch, Vadodara, Anand, Ahmedabad and Sabarmati.
Entire land (1389.5 Ha.) for MAHSR project has been acquired. All Statutory Clearances have been obtained. All 1651 utilities have been shifted. The delay in land acquisition in the State of Maharashtra has impacted the project till 2021. The land acquisition picked up in 2022 in Maharashtra.