Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project: 1.4 km Narmada river bridge nears completion – Railways News

The Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project has reached a significant milestone with the ongoing construction of a 1.4 km long bridge over the Narmada River in Gujarat’s Bharuch district. This bridge, the longest river bridge in the Gujarat portion of the project, represents a crucial segment of the high-speed rail corridor, connecting Surat and Bharuch Bullet Train stations.

The Narmada River, often dubbed the “Life Line of Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat,” is a vital water resource in central India. Its importance extends beyond water supply, supporting agriculture, drinking needs, and hydropower. The river is home to the Sardar Sarovar Dam, India’s third-highest concrete dam, stretching 1210 meters (3970 feet) and standing 163 meters above its deepest foundation level.

Engineering Feats: Well Foundations Anchor the Narmada Bridge

The construction of this bridge involves the use of well foundations—cylindrical structures sunk into the riverbed to support heavy infrastructure. A total of 25 well foundations are being employed, with five wells reaching depths of over 70 meters. Notably, the deepest well foundation extends to 77.11 meters, surpassing the height of the Qutub Minar, one of India’s tallest monuments.

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Challenges have arisen during the construction, particularly during the monsoon season and subsequent floods in September 2023. The release of approximately 18 lakh cusecs of water from the Sardar Sarovar Dam led to significant disruptions. Temporary steel bridges were damaged, and on-site heavy-duty cranes were submerged, affecting construction progress and electrical connectivity.

Despite these setbacks, site engineers have demonstrated resilience and adaptability. Teams worked around the clock to address issues with well sinking, employing the Jack-Down method to counteract tilt and shift problems. Their efforts have led to notable progress, with 19 out of 25 well foundations completed and superstructure erection underway.

The bridge features 24 spans, including 21 spans of 60 meters each, along with additional spans of 36 meters and 35 meters. The well foundations, each 10 meters in diameter and exceeding 60 meters in depth, support 25 circular piers ranging from 14 to 18 meters in height. The superstructure will consist of Post-Tensioned Box Girders (SBS type).

This bridge is one of 24 river bridges planned for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project. Of the 20 bridges in Gujarat, ten have already been completed, spanning rivers such as Par, Purna, Mindhola, and others. The successful completion of this bridge marks a significant advancement in the high-speed rail project’s progress.

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