Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train: Why Thane station is being built 12 metres above ground

The Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project, a 508-kilometer-long high-speed rail corridor, is currently under construction across Maharashtra, Gujarat, and the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli. A significant aspect of the Maharashtra section is the Thane bullet train station, which stands out due to its unique design. The concourse level of the Thane station is set 12 meters above the natural ground level, a design decision aimed at preserving the mangroves in the eco-sensitive area.

This elevated design contrasts with conventional, ground-level railway stations. The project details emphasize that this station design considers the presence of mangroves, ensuring minimal impact on the surrounding environment. The Thane bullet train station, part of the 135.45-kilometer elevated section, stretches from Shilphata in Thane district to Zaroli village near the Maharashtra-Gujarat border.

This section includes three elevated stations - Thane Virar Boisar and will feature a 460-meter bridge over the Ulhas River, a 2.32-kilometer bridge over the Vaitarna River, and a 510-meter bridge over the Jagani River. The project is also seeing significant progress in constructing 36 bridges and crossings, including 12 steel bridges.