The Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project, a cornerstone of India’s high-speed rail ambitions, is progressing rapidly, with significant advancements particularly evident in Gujarat. The project, which spans 508 kilometres and encompasses 12 stations, is marking substantial milestones with the completion of rail level slabs at five stations: Vapi, Bilimora, Surat, Anand, and Ahmedabad.
The development of the bullet train stations along the alignment is moving at a commendable pace. Foundation work for all eight stations in Gujarat is now finished, with the construction of superstructures well underway. These stations are set to offer a range of modern amenities, including ticketing areas, business-class lounges, nurseries, restrooms, smoking rooms, information booths, retail centres, and public announcement systems, thereby enhancing passenger comfort and convenience. Some stations are being developed as multi-modal transport hubs to ensure seamless connectivity with various modes of transportation, such as autos, buses, and taxis. This integration aims to facilitate efficient access to and from the stations, thus improving the overall travel experience for passengers.
In Gujarat, the bullet train stations will be located in Sabarmati, Ahmedabad, Anand, Vadodara, Bharuch, Surat, Bilimora, and Vapi. In Maharashtra, the stations will include Boisar, Virar, Thane, and Mumbai. Each station along this high-speed corridor will be equipped with state-of-the-art facilities designed to cater to the needs of both regular and premium travellers. Construction milestones are being achieved at a brisk pace. For instance, the concourse level slabs at Vapi and Bilimora, each measuring 425 metres, are now complete. Surat’s concourse level slab, which is 450 metres long, has also been completed. Bharuch station has made notable progress, with 350 metres of its planned 425-metre rail level slab length finished so far. Vadodara is also advancing, with the first-floor slab casting work currently in progress.
The Sabarmati station stands out with significant advancements. All nine slabs on its first floor are complete, and three out of nine concourse slabs have been finished. This station exemplifies the project’s commitment to integrating multiple transportation modes, thereby enhancing connectivity for passengers. The Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project is poised to revolutionise travel between these two major cities by drastically reducing travel time and offering superior passenger facilities. This ambitious endeavour not only marks a significant leap in India’s infrastructure development but also sets the stage for future high-speed rail projects across the country.
