Steel Bridge for Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train Project launched near Silvassa

New Delhi, India (Metro Rail Today): In a significant milestone for India's ambitious Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project, a new 100-meter-long steel bridge was successfully launched on August 25, 2024. The launch took place near Silvassa in Dadra & Nagar Haveli, marking another critical step in the development of the high-speed rail corridor.

The steel bridge, weighing a substantial 1464 metric tons, stands 14.6 meters tall and spans 14.3 meters in width. Fabricated in a specialized workshop in Trichy, Tamil Nadu, this component was meticulously assembled and transported to the construction site using heavy-duty trailers. The process of moving and installing such a massive structure underscores the complexity and scale of this infrastructure project.

To facilitate the launch, engineers employed a temporary launching nose that spans 84 meters and weighs 600 metric tons. This temporary structure was essential to avoid any need for intermediate supports during the installation process. In addition to the launching nose, additional temporary members were incorporated to ensure the bridge's stability during the launch.

Advanced Engineering and Construction Techniques

A total of 27,500 High-strength Friction Grip (HSFG) bolts were used to secure the components of the launching nose, while approximately 55,250 Tor-Shear Type High Strength (TTHS) bolts, featuring C5 system painting and elastomeric bearings, were utilized for the main bridge. These advanced fastening systems are crucial for the structural integrity and long-term durability of the bridge.

The bridge was assembled near the site on temporary trestles, positioned at a height of 14.5 meters above the ground. The installation process involved pulling the bridge into place using an automatic mechanism comprising two semi-automatic jacks, each with a capacity of 250 tons. This operation was carried out with precision using mac-alloy bars, showcasing the advanced engineering capabilities involved in the project.

The "Make in India" Initiative and Japanese Expertise

The Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project represents a major endeavor in India's infrastructure development, combining local technical expertise with international standards. Under the "Make in India" initiative, the project aims to leverage domestic resources and capabilities while incorporating Japanese technology and engineering practices.

This steel bridge is a testament to India's growing ability to produce and utilize high-quality infrastructure components domestically. The successful installation of this bridge not only enhances the Bullet Train corridor but also underscores India's commitment to advancing its infrastructure through self-reliance and innovation.

Previous Milestones in the Bullet Train Project

This newly launched bridge is the fourth out of the 28 steel bridges planned for the Bullet Train corridor. The previous three bridges were completed as follows:

• October 3, 2023: Across National Highway 53, Surat, Gujarat
• April 14, 2024: Over Vadodara-Ahmedabad main line of Indian Railways, near Nadiad, Gujarat
• June 23, 2024: Over Delhi-Mumbai National Expressway, near Vadodara, Gujarat

Each of these milestones represents a significant achievement in the ongoing development of the high-speed rail corridor, demonstrating steady progress and adherence to engineering excellence.

The launch of the 100-meter steel bridge near Silvassa is a noteworthy achievement in the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project. This development not only highlights the advanced engineering techniques being employed but also reflects India's commitment to enhancing its infrastructure through the "Make in India" initiative. As the project progresses, each completed bridge brings India closer to realizing its vision of a world-class high-speed rail network, poised to transform the country's transportation landscape.