Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train: Progress on Narmada Bridge

The Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project is progressing swiftly, with significant developments in the construction of a 1.4 km long bridge over the Narmada River in Gujarat’s Bharuch district.

This bridge, located between the Surat and Bharuch Bullet Train stations, is a crucial part of the project and is being constructed on a good foundation, a traditional method known for supporting heavy structures like railway bridges.

Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train Progress on the Narmada River Bridge:

The National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL) announced remarkable progress on the Narmada bridge, the longest river bridge in the Gujarat portion of the project.

Out of the 25 well foundations, 19 have been completed, and the erection of the superstructure has commenced. Some of the well foundations reach depths greater than 70 meters, with the deepest well measuring 77.11 meters.

Challenges Faced During Construction:

The construction has not been without challenges. The “Tilt” and “Shift” of wells during the sinking process pose significant difficulties due to natural forces such as tidal waves, high river flow, and soil conditions.

In September 2023, adverse weather conditions, including the release of approximately 18 lakh cusecs of water from the Sardar Sarovar dam, damaged a temporary steel bridge, submerged heavy-duty cranes, and disrupted electrical connectivity at the site.

Significance of the Narmada River:

The Narmada River, often called the “Life Line of Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat,” is vital in central India’s water resources, supporting agriculture, drinking water, and hydropower.

The river is also home to the Sardar Sarovar dam, one of India’s largest concrete dams, standing 163 meters tall and 1210 meters long.

• Total spans: 24 (21x60m + 2x36m + 1x35m)
• Well foundations: 25 (10m diameter, more than 60m deep)
• Number of piers: 25 circular piers (5m & 4m diameter)
• Height of piers: 14m to 18m
• Type of superstructure: Post-tensioned box girders (SBS type)

Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train Overall Project Scope:

The Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project includes the construction of 24 river bridges, 20 of which are in Gujarat and 4 in Maharashtra.

Ten bridges have already been completed on rivers like Par, Purna, Mindhola, Ambika, Auranga, Venganiya, Mohar, Dhadhar, Kolak, and Vatrak in various districts of Gujarat.

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