Mumbai–Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail project has achieved a major milestone with the successful breakthrough of its second mountain tunnel in Palghar, Maharashtra. Built using advanced tunnelling technology, this achievement demonstrates engineering expertise, and the rapid pace of execution. The milestone further reinforces India’s growing capabilities in developing world-class high-speed rail infrastructure.

Introduction:

The Mumbai–Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (MAHSR) project has marked a significant engineering achievement with the successful breakthrough of the second mountain tunnel in Palghar district, Maharashtra. The tunnel, known as Mountain Tunnel-6 (MT-6), represents a major step forward in the construction of India’s first bullet train corridor.

Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & Information Technology, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, announced the breakthrough, calling it a testament to the speed, precision, and innovation driving the ambitious infrastructure project.

Engineering Milestone in Palghar:

The newly completed mountain tunnel spans 454 metres in length and 14.4 metres in width, designed to accommodate both up and down tracks for the high-speed rail corridor. Notably, this marks the second mountain tunnel breakthrough in Palghar district within just one month, following the completion of MT-5 near Saphale on 2 January 2026.

A tunnel breakthrough occurs when excavation teams working simultaneously from opposite ends of a tunnel successfully meet at the center, forming a continuous passage. This milestone is considered a critical phase in tunnel construction, demonstrating accuracy in alignment, planning, and execution.

Advanced Tunnelling Technology:

The excavation of MT-6 was carried out using the New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM), a modern drill-and-controlled-blast technique suited for complex geological conditions. The tunnel was excavated from both ends and completed within 12 months, showcasing efficient project management and technical expertise.

NATM is particularly effective in regions like Palghar, where geological formations are irregular and challenging. Unlike tunnel boring machines, which require uniform conditions, NATM allows real-time adjustments during excavation. The method relies on flexible support systems such as shotcreting, rock bolts, and lattice girders to stabilize the tunnel structure.

Safety and Monitoring Measures:

Ensuring worker safety remained a top priority throughout the tunnelling process. Comprehensive measures were implemented, including:

These measures helped maintain a safe working environment while sustaining construction momentum.

Leadership and National Confidence:

Congratulating the project team, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted that the pace of progress has instilled renewed confidence across the country. He noted that the MAHSR project is drawing global attention due to its innovative construction methods and technological advancements.

The Minister also emphasized that many of the large machines and advanced technologies being used for the project are manufactured in India, reflecting the growing strength of domestic engineering and manufacturing capabilities.

Timeline for Operations:

According to the Union Minister, the Gujarat section of the bullet train project is expected to begin commercial operations next year. High-speed rail services are projected to extend up to Thane by 2028, with the corridor reaching Mumbai by 2029, marking a phased but steady expansion.

Regional Development in Maharashtra:

Dr. Hemant Vishnu Savara, Member of Parliament from Palghar, was present during the announcement and expressed gratitude for the breakthrough. He highlighted the rapid development of the district through major railway initiatives, including:

He further noted that railway investment in Maharashtra has increased significantly since 2014, leading to faster project execution and improved infrastructure services.

Progress Across Maharashtra:

Construction activity in Maharashtra is advancing on multiple fronts. Key developments include:

In Palghar district alone, seven mountain tunnels are under construction at various stages of completion. With MT-5 and MT-6 already achieving breakthroughs, the remaining tunnels continue to progress steadily.

Details of Mountain Tunnels: 

A Corridor of Transformation:

Spanning approximately 508 kilometres, the MAHSR corridor covers 352 km in Gujarat and Dadra & Nagar Haveli, and 156 km in Maharashtra. It will connect major urban and industrial centres including Ahmedabad, Surat, Vapi, Virar, Thane, and Mumbai.

As of 27 January 2026, around 334 km of viaducts, 17 river bridges, and 12 major crossings have been completed. Track laying and electrification works have also gained momentum in Gujarat, reinforcing the project’s overall progress.

Conclusion:

The second mountain tunnel breakthrough in Palghar underscores the accelerating pace of the Mumbai–Ahmedabad Bullet Train project. With advanced technology, strong leadership, and steady progress across states, the project is set to transform India’s transportation landscape and redefine high-speed rail connectivity in the coming years.

Source: NHSRCL – Press Release | Image Credit: NHSRCL

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