Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw, has announced a significant achievement in the Mumbai–Ahmedabad High Speed Rail (MAHSR) project. The second tunnel breakthrough in Palghar, Maharashtra, marks the completion of the state’s first mountain tunnel for the bullet train corridor.
The newly completed tunnel, known as MT-5, stretches approximately 1.5 km between Virar and Boisar stations, making it one of the longest in Palghar district. Excavation was carried out from both ends over 18 months using advanced drill-and-blast technology, which enabled real-time monitoring of ground conditions and the use of support systems such as shotcrete, rock bolts, and lattice girders. Strict safety measures, including ventilation and fire prevention protocols, were followed throughout the process.
Progress Across the Corridor
- The first underground tunnel of about 5 km between Thane and Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) was completed in September 2025.
- The MAHSR project spans 508 km, with 27.4 km of tunnels (21 km underground and 6.4 km surface).
- Eight mountain tunnels are planned: seven in Maharashtra (totaling 6.05 km) and one in Gujarat (350 metres).
In Maharashtra, work is advancing on multiple tunnels:
- MT-1 (820 m): 15% progress
- MT-2 (228 m): preparatory stage
- MT-3 (1,403 m): 35.5% progress
- MT-4 (1,260 m): 31% progress
- MT-6 (454 m): 35% progress
- MT-7 (417 m): 28% progress
Economic and Environmental Impact
Minister Vaishnaw highlighted that the bullet train project is already generating employment and will create further opportunities once operational. The high-speed rail will cut travel time between Mumbai and Ahmedabad to just 1 hour 58 minutes, strengthening connectivity between major commercial hubs.
The project is expected to:
- Boost economic activity along the corridor
- Encourage knowledge transfer and industrial growth
- Support new IT and industrial clusters
- Deliver long-term benefits for the middle class with affordable, comfortable travel
Importantly, the bullet train is projected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by nearly 95% compared to road transport, making it a sustainable leap in India’s infrastructure development.
Transforming Connectivity
The 508 km corridor will link key cities including Sabarmati, Ahmedabad, Anand, Vadodara, Bharuch, Surat, Bilimora, Vapi, Boisar, Virar, Thane, and Mumbai, marking a transformative step in India’s transportation landscape.
