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HomeInfrastructureFirst Electrical Masts Installed for Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train Project

First Electrical Masts Installed for Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train Project

First Electrical Masts Installed for Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train Project

India’s much-anticipated Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project has made significant progress as the first set of electrical masts were successfully installed between Surat and Bilimora in Gujarat. This milestone marks a crucial step in the electrification of the high-speed rail corridor, bringing the ambitious venture closer to completion.

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the installation of the first two 14-metre-high steel masts, which are part of the ongoing electrification work for the corridor. The masts will support the Overhead Equipment (OHE) system, including the overhead wires, earthing systems, and related accessories essential for the operation of the Bullet Train. The project, being constructed by the National High-Speed Rail Corporation Ltd (NHSRCL), aims to revolutionise transportation between Mumbai and Ahmedabad with a faster, more efficient travel option.

The installation of these masts is a significant milestone in the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project, which aims to connect the two cities with high-speed rail capable of reaching speeds up to 320 km/h. The project has been steadily progressing, with the installation of over 20,000 masts planned for the entire 508-kilometre corridor. These masts will range in height from 9.5 metres to 14.5 metres and will be installed at various points along the route to support the 2×25 kV overhead traction system required for high-speed trains. The electrical masts are an integral part of the infrastructure needed for the functioning of the Bullet Train, ensuring the provision of uninterrupted power to the trains. The OHE system will be capable of powering the high-speed trains along the corridor, and the masts will hold up the overhead wires which transmit the necessary electricity to the trains. The masts are designed to meet Japanese standards, reflecting India’s commitment to high-quality infrastructure, and they have been manufactured in India, in line with the government’s “Make in India” initiative.

In addition to the installation of the electrical masts, there has been continuous progress across other components of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project. A significant achievement occurred on January 13, 2025, when a 210-metre-long pre-stressed concrete (PSC) bridge was completed over National Highway-48 at Dabhan village near Nadiad in Gujarat. This bridge forms a vital part of the project, as it spans the highway and enables smooth and uninterrupted construction for the Bullet Train tracks.

The construction of the bridge was carried out using the Balanced Cantilever Method, a technique often used for building larger spans. The completed bridge consists of 72 precast segments and four spans measuring 40 metres, 65 metres, 65 metres, and 40 metres in length. This marks another significant achievement in the overall construction of the high-speed rail corridor. As of January 2025, work has been progressing steadily across various segments of the project. NHSRCL has completed a total of 253 kilometres of viaduct work, and 290 kilometres of girder casting has also been completed. In addition, the construction of 358 kilometres of piers has been accomplished, along with the completion of 13 river bridges and five steel bridges. Furthermore, noise barriers have been installed over approximately 112 kilometres, while track construction has already begun at several locations in Gujarat.

The Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project is not only about speeding up travel between two major cities but also serves as a stepping stone for the future of high-speed rail in India. Once completed, this corridor will dramatically reduce travel times between Mumbai and Ahmedabad, cutting the current journey time of around 7 hours to just 2 hours. The project also has broader implications for India’s transportation infrastructure, providing a model for future high-speed rail networks across the country. The ongoing developments in the project demonstrate India’s commitment to modernising its transport infrastructure and embracing cutting-edge technologies. The successful installation of the electrical masts is a testament to the country’s determination to complete the Bullet Train project on schedule, with many more milestones to be achieved in the coming months. As the electrification work progresses, the next phase will involve the continued construction of viaducts, stations, and the final track laying. The project is expected to be completed within the next few years, further enhancing India’s connectivity and positioning the nation as a leader in modern rail travel. The installation of electrical masts for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project marks a significant step forward in realising the dream of high-speed rail in India. With ongoing progress in various aspects of the project, India is poised to transform its transportation landscape, offering a new era of fast and efficient travel for its citizens.

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