Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train Project Reaches Key Milestone with 300 km of Viaducts Completed

India's Bullet Train project connecting Mumbai and Ahmedabad has reached a significant milestone with the completion of 300 kilometers of viaducts. This achievement highlights the use of advanced construction methods and indigenous technology, showcasing India's growing capabilities in high-speed rail infrastructure. The project, supported by the Japanese government, has implemented innovative techniques that expedite construction, including the Full Span Launching Method. As the thematic stations take shape and track work progresses, the initiative demonstrates a commitment to modern transportation solutions and the 'Make in India' policy. Discover more about this landmark achievement in Indian infrastructure.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 20, 2025, 20:12 IST

Significant Progress in India's Bullet Train Initiative

The ambitious Bullet Train project connecting Mumbai and Ahmedabad has marked a significant achievement, with the completion of 300 kilometers of viaducts. This milestone was celebrated with the installation of a 40-meter full-span box girder near Surat, Gujarat, as reported by the National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL).

According to NHSRCL, out of the total 300 km of superstructure, 257.4 km was constructed using the Full Span Launching Method (FSLM), which includes 14 river bridges. Additionally, 37.8 km was built using the Span by Span (SBS) method, along with 0.9 km of steel bridges and 1.2 km of PSC bridges.

For the construction of 257.4 km of viaduct via FSLM and 37.8 km through SBS, a total of 6455 and 925 spans of 40 meters each were utilized, respectively. The project has emphasized the use of domestically designed and manufactured equipment, including Straddle Carriers and Launching Gantries.

This initiative represents a significant advancement in Indian infrastructure, highlighting the nation's growing expertise in high-speed rail technology, supported by the Japanese government. The FSLM has notably expedited construction, allowing for full-span girder installation to be up to ten times quicker than traditional segmental methods. Each full-span box girder weighs approximately 970 metric tons, with segmental girders being used selectively where full-span installation is impractical.

To support the construction efforts, 27 dedicated casting yards have been set up along the corridor. Steel bridges are being manufactured in seven workshops across the country, including three in Gujarat and one each in Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and West Bengal, showcasing national unity. Over 300,000 noise barriers have been installed along the viaducts to reduce operational noise. The project has also completed 383 km of pier work, 401 km of foundation work, and 326 km of girder casting.

The thematic Bullet Train stations are rapidly developing, designed to integrate seamlessly with existing rail and road transport systems for passenger convenience. These stations will feature modern amenities. Track work on the viaducts has commenced, with approximately 157 km of reinforced concrete track bed construction completed in Gujarat. Additionally, rolling stock depots with advanced infrastructure are being established in Maharashtra and Gujarat. This achievement underscores the project's meticulous planning, innovative engineering, and dedication to the 'Make in India' initiative.