Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train Reaches Key Milestone with Completion of 210m Bridge on NH-48
The Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project has hit an important milestone with the completion of a 210-meter-long pre-stressed concrete (PSC) bridge crossing National Highway-48 (NH-48) in Gujarat. The bridge, which was finished on January 2, 2025, stands as a critical piece of infrastructure for the ambitious high-speed rail corridor connecting the two major cities.
The completion of this bridge not only demonstrates progress but also highlights the engineering precision and modern construction techniques being used to realise India’s first bullet train network. Located in Vaghaldhara village near Panchlai in Gujarat, the bridge spans across NH-48, one of the most important highways in India, linking Delhi and Chennai. This highway is heavily trafficked, making the completion of the bridge a major achievement in ensuring minimal disruption to the traffic flow while maintaining safety standards. The bridge features a span configuration of 40m + 65m + 65m + 40m, constructed using the Balanced Cantilever Method, a technique chosen for its ability to handle large spans while maintaining stability and durability.
The strategic positioning of this bridge is vital as it lies between the Vapi and Bilimora Bullet Train stations, furthering the development of the high-speed rail network. The successful completion of this bridge follows the earlier completion of two other PSC bridges in the nearby Navsari district, which span 260 meters and 210 meters, respectively. These structures contribute to the larger goal of reducing travel time significantly between Mumbai and Ahmedabad, a journey that is expected to be transformed with the introduction of the bullet train. In order to minimise the impact on the flow of traffic on NH-48 during construction, additional lanes were built on both sides of the highway. This careful planning ensured that vehicles could still navigate the area safely while the bridge was being constructed. Moreover, a phased traffic diversion plan was implemented, with continuous monitoring to ensure smooth traffic movement and prevent any significant disruptions.
The completion of this bridge is a key milestone in the development of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train, which is expected to revolutionise travel between the two cities. The train, which is slated to reduce travel time from 7-8 hours to around 2-3 hours, will provide a faster, more comfortable, and more efficient mode of transport for passengers. This project is part of the Indian government’s vision to build world-class infrastructure and enhance connectivity across the country. As the construction continues, the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project will see further infrastructure advancements, including more bridges, stations, and viaducts. The successful completion of the Vaghaldhara bridge underscores the dedication of the engineers, planners, and workers involved in realising this ambitious project. It also serves as a reminder of the potential for high-speed rail to transform travel in India, offering a glimpse into the future of transportation in the country. With each milestone, the project brings India closer to having a state-of-the-art high-speed rail network, promising not only a faster way of travel but also an enhanced travel experience for millions of passengers.
