TBM ‘Durgavati’ begins tunneling works on Bhopal Metro Underground Stretch

Bhopal, India (Metro Rail Today): The Bhopal Metro project has entered a critical construction phase with the formal commencement of underground tunnelling works, as a Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) named ‘Durgavati’ was lowered to a depth of 24 metres near Bhopal Railway Station. This marks a significant milestone in the development of the city’s first metro network, particularly for its underground section.

After nearly ten days of installation and testing, the TBM has now begun excavation, with initial digging carried out up to five metres before the formal launch. Officials from the Madhya Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MPMRCL) confirmed that tunnelling activities will now proceed in a phased and controlled manner.

Advanced Tunnelling for Urban Safety

The tunnelling process has been carefully designed to ensure minimal impact on existing structures in the densely built urban environment. The TBM will first create a 265-metre sloped path before advancing deeper into the tunnel alignment.

During excavation, engineers will continuously monitor Peak Particle Velocity (PPV) to control vibrations and safeguard nearby buildings. At depths of over 20 metres, large ventilation systems will be deployed to maintain air circulation and ensure safe working conditions underground.

Commenting on the development, Mrs. Mamta Shah, MD & CEO, Urban Infra Group, said, “The launch of TBM operations marks a crucial phase in metro construction, especially in urban areas where underground tunnelling requires precision engineering and real-time monitoring. Such advancements reflect the growing technical capabilities in India’s metro infrastructure development.”

3.39 km Underground Section Planned

The underground stretch forms part of the 16-kilometre Line-2 corridor from Karond to AIIMS, which includes a 3.39-kilometre twin-tunnel section and two underground stations. The tunnelling work is being executed at depths of up to 24 metres below ground level.

The underground alignment will begin near Aishbagh after Pul Bogda and extend up to Sindhi Colony before Karond, passing through some of the city’s busiest zones.

The project has allocated approximately ₹750 crore specifically for the underground section, reflecting the complexity and cost-intensive nature of subterranean metro construction.

Multiple TBMs and Station Development

The Bhopal Metro will deploy a total of three TBMs for the underground works. Following the successful initial operation of ‘Durgavati’, a second TBM named ‘Ahilyabai’ is expected to be launched soon. The naming of these machines after historical figures aims to create a cultural connection with the region.

Construction work is also progressing on underground stations near Bhopal Railway Station and Narmada Bus Stand, each planned to be around 180 metres in length. Additional tunnelling activities are set to begin shortly from Aishbagh and Sindhi Colony, accelerating overall progress.

Officials noted that once deployed underground, TBMs typically remain within the tunnel alignment, with only select components being dismantled later as construction progresses.

The underground section is a vital component of the Bhopal Metro, designed to ensure seamless connectivity through high-density areas where elevated construction is not feasible.

With tunnelling now underway, the Bhopal Metro project is progressing toward its next phase, bringing the city closer to a modern, efficient and sustainable urban transport system.